RTDM: Tonya Tolson
Tonya Tolson
Vice Principal/English Teacher/Academic Coordinator MICS Football
Huntersville, NC
We want to get to know you! Briefly tell us about yourself: Where you came from, where you've been and how you live your dream (or are working toward it).
I was born in Trenton, NJ and did all my schooling in NJ. I went to Seton Hall University and Trinity Washington in Washington, DC for my masters. I have lived in PA, VA, and Maryland and now more recently in Charlotte, NC area.
How do you define success and how do you stay motivated to keep working toward it?
Success is whatever you define it to be. For me it can be the completion of a small goal you set for yourself, for instance deciding to give up sodas for the week and you achieved it… to getting the job or career of your dreams. I strive to work toward my dreams everyday by touching lives of children and being a lifelong learner, making sure I learn something new all the time.
What’s been your biggest challenge, perceived failure or fear and how did you overcome it?
One of my biggest challenges, or a failure so to speak, was a time when I was told by a principal that I was not a great teacher and it hurt me to the core. I was still young in my career and my confidence went straight to the basement. I decided to not listen to her and leave that situation and go to a place where I could make a difference with my style of teaching. It has made all the difference and made me the teacher/administrator that I am today.
What’s the best advice you’d give to a younger you?
Go with your gut and instincts the first time! Don’t let people determine your success and how you look at yourself. Take that trip, move to that new state, live your best life! There are so many things I might have done differently but I hold no regrets!
Share a book, quote and/or idea that's impacted you the most:
“With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts.” Eleanor Roosevelt. I always tell my students if you wake up the next day, it is always another day to make it right! No matter what you did yesterday.
What are you most proud of? Go ahead, boast a little!
I’m most proud of my husband Antonio and my two kids Tiara and AJ, and more recently my new granddaughter Harlowe! My family has been through a lot as far as moving to a new state, me suffering several miscarriages and our son recently getting diagnosed with autism. I have changed my perspective and goals. All things that are behind me are just that, BEHIND! As I got the Vice Principal position at my school this past school year, it showed me my hard work, trials, and tribulation are not in vain.
What is something surprising about you?
That I love to write and sing. I am such a music head! Music of all types is my escape.
What is your favorite vice/guilty pleasure/strange habit? Come on now, we all have them!
Guilty pleasures are reality shows because my life is so regular which I love but I definitely watch for entertainment purposes.
Share a time when a perceived failure was actually a blessing in disguise.
When I got laid off from Corporate America and was pushed into being a teacher, this is the most fulfilled that I have been in my career. It was my God sent, blessing in disguise.
What's the smartest investment you’ve made for yourself?
Going to professional development seminars and also stepping outside my comfort zone and speaking at different conventions for academics.
What’s MOST important to you right now?
Family. I have an amazing husband who supports me 1000% even when he is tired of teacher talk! My kids, my grand baby, friends and everyone that supports me makes it all worth it!
Who is the Risk Taker Dream Maker(s) that inspires you? Why?
My Risk Taker Dream Maker that inspires me is my sister Tameka Brooks. She became a teacher before me and has worked so tirelessly for her students and to further her career. She is amazing and she needs to know that! Whenever I need advice for my career and just life lessons she is always here!
Follow Tonya:
Instagram: @prettyzeta
Twitter : Tonya Tolson
Facebook @prettyzeta
