Introducing our 2024 Freedom Schools staff!
Meet our incredible team of staff and educators who will lead K-5th grade classrooms at Emerson Elementary this summer. We are ecstatic to have such an amazing group of young adults who are passionate about transformative education and revolutionary grassroots social action supporting our Freedom Schools program this year! We can’t wait to see all the ways they grow as individuals and nurture the leadership of our Freedom Schools scholars!
Lailanie Rabena - Education Coach (she/her/hers)
I grew up in South Seattle and attended both my undergrad and graduate years at the University of Washington, and hope to one day go back to school! I am a life-long learner and thrive in community, I find my bucket is the most full when I am surrounded by those who love to make growth too; that could be in any and all areas! Some of my favorite things to do is go to coffee shops with my partner and stay physically active!
Katherine Johnson - Site Assistant
Hello, my name is Katherine. I am a student at Washington State University studying Elementary Education. I have a long history with WA-BLOC and the Freedom School community since I was in high school (Go Rainier Beach!). Working with WA-BLOC and the scholars is the highlight of my summer, and I look forward to next summer because when my scholars walk through the door in the morning, I know that today is different from yesterday and will be different from tomorrow. I'm reminded that each day holds new possibilities for growth, learning, and making a positive impact.
Hibo Elmi - Site Assistant
Hey everyone! It’s Hibo here, representing all the love and positive vibes! I'm a proud Somali young mom, a passionate youth advocate, and a dedicated member of our community. From a young age, I've been all about spreading the importance of food justice, racial equality, self-love, and kindness. Working with amazing non-profit communities like RBAC, Americorp, the Somali Community Center, Rainier Beach Community, and the Vietnamese Community Center has been such a rewarding experience. I'm all about making a difference in our community and helping vulnerable youth reach their full potential. ❤️🙌🏿🌟
Faith Richardson - Educator
Hello! I'm Faith Richardson and I'm excited to be an educator for the Freedom Schools Summer Program. I am originally from Renton, but I go to school at the University of Massachusetts. I recently graduated with a bachelor's degree in English and Afro-American studies, and I'm currently pursuing a Master of Public Affairs. I'm excited to come home and empower the youth in my community!
Mia Doan - Educator
I'm a second-year first-generation student at the University of Washington. Next year, I'll be graduating with a degree in marine biology and a minor in diversity. I was born and raised in South Seattle (Othello) and I absolutely love where I'm from. My hobbies include crafting jewelry, making CDs, and collecting blind box figures. I have so much to teach and learn from my students this summer and I can't wait to get started!
Jasmine Cerezo - Educator
Hi! My name is Jasmine Cerezo (she/her) and I am so excited to be a part of Freedom Schools this summer! I am an aspiring educator and recent graduate from UW Seattle. I am dedicated to community building and supporting our youth. In my freetime, I enjoy running, reading, and crocheting.
Jamaica Aytch - Educator
My name is Jamaica Aytch. I was born and raised in Seattle and have been working with kids since I was way too young to be doing so. I've been involved in a number of programs similar to Freedom schools as well as coached soccer and track up at Lakeside. I'm currently pursuing a degree in psychology with hopes to move on to a career in clinical counseling down the line. This is my second summer with Freedom Schools.
Beth Girma - Educator
My name is Beth, and I am a current student at Western Washington University, studying history, law, and education! Outside of school, I work as a teaching artist at an all-ages arts and music space, hoping to bring liberatory and creative curriculums to schools and community programs. I spend most of my other time doing advocacy work in my community through the form of food and supply distribution, as well as service navigation for unhoused neighbors. In my downtime, I LOVE reading, playing Animal Crossing on the Switch, and hanging out with my sassy cat, Willow.
JC Fretz - Education Coach (and Kenai)
JC is an educator that has been working at Emerson Elementary since 2019. He believes that building strong relationships and communities where everyone’s needs are met and everyone can be themselves can change the world. When JC isn’t busy spending time with youth, he can usually be found roller skating, in nature, or spending time with his dog.
