Shondele Gillens is an Instructional Leader at Legacy Charter School.
“I chose Surge because I want to be a part of a movement driven by the call to reduce unnecessary struggles for scholars that look like me. I want to be a part of a movement that cultivates my ideas for reform and passion to change mindsets while challenging me to assess my shortcomings. Becoming a Surge fellow will challenge me to think critically to dismantle systems of thinking/doing that hinder other’s growth. I want to be a part of a movement that cultivates my potential so that I may have a greater impact on the communities in ways that empower others to lead stronger movements. Surge can equip me to create a sustainable Trauma-Informed Approach in schools. Through partnerships with individuals and networks in education; I can cultivate systems of support and training that can be replicated across urban communities.”