Calling Rooted in Representation
From the time she was a child, Delona Davis knew she wanted to be a teacher. She imagined her future classroom long before she ever stepped into one as an educator. As she grew, her purpose became clearer. She wanted to give students the feeling she rarely experienced: having a teacher who looked like her and understood her.
“I wanted to give kids the feeling I got when I finally had a teacher who looked like me,” she says. “I am a lover by nature, and I wanted to give love and support to my students.”
Her journey into the classroom took determination. She took her certification test four times before passing, and each attempt tested her confidence. But once she began her first year of teaching, everything made sense. The work was worth it.
One moment stays with her. A former student once recorded a video saying that her favorite elementary school memory was being in Ms. Davis’s class because “you always made sure I had what I needed.”
“I keep that video on my phone,” she says. “On hard days, it reminds me that the small things truly matter.”
Teaching in One of Michigan’s Most Diverse Districts
Delona teaches in Kentwood, a community known for its rich cultural and linguistic diversity. She sees that diversity as an opportunity to make every student feel valued.
She uses texts, lessons, and activities that reflect her students’ cultures and celebrations. When a lesson connects to something they experience at home, she sees their excitement and pride.
“When students realize we are learning about something they celebrate, their eyes light up,” she says. “It helps all students appreciate the world around them.”
Her approach has shaped her philosophy of success. She believes in measuring growth through confidence, empathy, and students taking risks, not just scores or benchmarks.
Moments That Shape Confidence and Belonging
One of her most meaningful teaching experiences involved a student who stuttered and was hesitant to speak at the start of the year. Delona was intentional about giving her time, space, and affirmation.
“At the end of the year, she told me, ‘Ms. Davis, I love you because you never finish my sentences and you always look me in my eyes when I talk.’ I will never forget that moment.”
Another student reminded her of the power of believing in children before they believe in themselves. He began the year testing far below grade level and rarely showed emotion. By the end of the year, he outperformed every student in the class on the diagnostic assessment.
“He could not stop smiling,” she says. “It was a huge moment for both of us.”
Alongside these memories, Delona tracks success in ways that go far beyond test scores. She pays close attention to the quieter forms of growth. A shy student raising their hand for the first time. A reluctant learner showing effort during a difficult task. A moment of empathy between classmates.
“Those are the wins I look for. Those moments tell me my students are growing, not just academically, but as humans.”
Her mentor, Tracey Barnes, a TeachMichigan Aspiring Leader Fellow and district coach who supports educators across Kentwood Public Schools, has seen Delona’s impact through their work together.
“Delona builds meaningful connections with every student and tailors her teaching to their individual strengths and needs. Her enthusiasm and creativity keep students deeply engaged. Her thoughtful approach supports both learners and colleagues. Her warmth and professionalism enrich our school community.”
Tracey’s words reflect what Delona hopes every child experiences in her classroom: a space where students feel supported, capable, and deeply cared for.
For Delona, creating a supportive classroom means highlighting student strengths, encouraging them through challenges, and helping them see what they are capable of.
A Year of Personal and Professional Growth
Delona’s resilience extends beyond her day-to-day teaching. Last year, she earned her master’s degree while transitioning to a new grade level and completing her TeachMichigan Fellowship. It was one of the most challenging years of her career and also one of the most rewarding.
“TeachMichigan gave me mentorship, reflection, and a community that pushed me to grow,” she says. “I still look at my portfolio to remind myself of how far I have come.”
Outside the classroom, Delona loves to bake, read, travel, and explore new restaurants. She also prioritizes rest as part of her self-care.
“When I make time for myself, I show up better for my students.”
More than anything, she hopes her students remember her as a teacher who always showed up for them. Whether it was a pep talk, a basketball game, or a snack when they needed a boost, she wants them to know she cared deeply.
“My mission is to empower students to be lifelong learners, to respect and accept others who are different from themselves, and to use their knowledge and skills to succeed in school and in life.”
Delona Davis
Delona Davis is a 4th grade teacher at Hamilton Elementary in Kentwood Public Schools and a 2023 TeachMichigan Early Career Fellow. She has taught for five years and recently earned her master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Michigan State. Delona is known for creating a classroom where students feel seen, valued, and supported. She centers student voice, builds confidence through intentional relationships, and designs learning experiences that reflect the diverse cultures represented in her school community.
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