GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) -- Inside Shawmut Hills Academy, Chantae Lagrone is creating a classroom where scholars feel supported, confident and ready to learn. As a proud GRPS alumnus, she returned to the district with a mission to be a positive influence and champion for the next generation.
“What I enjoy most about my job is building relationships with my students and watching them grow - not just academically, but emotionally and socially as well,” Lagrone said. “I love seeing those ‘lightbulb moments’ when something finally clicks for them.”
Lagrone’s connection to GRPS runs deep. As a former GRPS scholar, she returned to the district with a mission to give back and inspire the next generation.
“I chose to work at GRPS because I was once a GRPS scholar myself,” she said. “That experience shaped who I am today, and it inspired me to come back and give back to the same community that poured into me. I wanted to be a positive influence for the next generation and show my students what’s possible. I also deeply believe in Rita Pierson’s philosophy that every child deserves a champion, and I strive to be that for my students each day.”
In her classroom, Lagrone works to create a safe and supportive environment where scholars feel confident taking risks and learning from mistakes.
“I believe I make an impact by being a consistent, caring presence in my students’ lives,” she said. “I encourage them to embrace mistakes as part of the learning process and to keep trying, even when things are challenging. My goal is for every student to build confidence, make positive choices, and truly believe in their potential, knowing they have someone in their corner.”
Through her commitment to relationships, encouragement and growth, Lagrone continues to make a difference for scholars at Shawmut Hills Academy.