Donja Thomas

About Donja Thomas

My work encourages and supports cultural relevant pedagogy, critical literacy & the use…

Experience

1. English Educator Black Studies Curriculum Developer

   Gahanna-Jefferson Public Schools

   Aug 2007 — Present

   My vision for teaching stands strongly upon the philosophical praxis that to know how to teach is to create possibilities for the construction and production of knowledge rather than to be engaged simply in transferring knowledge.This philosophy of teaching and learning allows me to infuse innovative methods of instruction into pedagogical praxis that embraces and builds upon concepts of cultural, critical, and spiritual consciousness *Course Curriculum Creator and Teacher for English 11 & 12: African American VoiceIn this course, we (my students and I) investigate and research major issues directly related to Black literature, cultural perspectives, social issues and experiences through relevant lenses that will assist students in discovering and utilizing an array of literacy practices across school and community contexts. To do this, we place attention on historical, contemporary, and popular theorizations and conceptualizations of African Americans and the Black experience. Overall Teaching Responsibilities include:*Preparing objectives, questions, assignments, and assessments for all students*Preparing learning materials that provide rigor, relevance, and critical analysis *Providing positive and critical feedback for student growth*Building rapport with students and families from different cultural backgrounds*Connecting students & community members for participation in classroom dialogues and real world applications*Creating a trusting atmosphere that builds on students’ strengths and learning preferences

Education

• The Ohio State University College of Education and Human Ecology

  Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), Adolescent, Post Secondary and Community Literacies

  2012 — 2016

• The Ohio State University

  Masters in Education, English Education

  2006 — 2007

• Northland High School

  Diploma, College Prepatory

  1995 — 1999

• Vanderbilt University

  English Language and Literature, General

  1999 — 2002

• The Ohio State University College of Arts and Sciences

  Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), English Literature

  2003