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Hello, Wake Crew!

Welcome to this space. If I've never met you, I hope our paths eloquently connect in one of our many Wake events.

I'm Mariah Walker, a Raleigh native (yes, there are still a few of us)! I have been a part of WCPSS for 18 years, which does not include my time as a student! As a North Carolina Teaching Fellow, I attended North Carolina State University. My undergraduate major was English and Secondary Education. I began teaching at Sanderson High School after graduation. I returned to NC State to complete my Master's in Curriculum Supervision and Leadership, followed by my Master's in School Administration. I've proudly served as a Birth Coach, Pre-K Teacher, High School Teacher, Mentor Teacher, Assistant Principal, and Principal (at all K-12 levels).

In addition to teaching, I still enjoy learning. I've participated in post-graduate research around academic linguistics amongst geographically diverse students and educators, linguistics amongst geographically native North Carolinians, female leadership at secondary schools and central offices, post-partum work continuum for female educators, and underrepresentation/low performance of students in Academically and Intellectually Gifted programs. I love all ages of learners from newborns to 21 years olds, they all bring me joy!

My passion lies in enhancing school culture and promoting genuine equity, creating positive and inclusive environments where both students and staff can thrive...because working conditions and learning conditions are related!

With a proven track record in both elementary and secondary settings, I've successfully implemented strategic plans, developed innovative curricula practices, and led initiatives that place people before programs. I'm all about fostering strong relationships with stakeholders, collaborating with faculty to achieve academic goals, and ensuring a safe, engaging educational experience for everyone.

Together we can make the big, small! I am because you are, You are therefore I am!