Crystal Adams

NLCP Class of 2009
BA in Educational Studies, Knox College 2014
Teacher of 10th Grade Algebra II, Noble Network of Charter Schools

On being a student at North Lawndale College Prep

"They didn't just teach us math and science... reading, social studies. They taught us lifelong lessons. I was able to complete college, not because of what I knew academically, but what North Lawndale taught me in terms of how to overcome adversity, how to advocate for myself, how to seek out resources, how to ask for help. That was something that I took with me through college, then also in grad school, and even now doing it as an adult, working at a school teaching. Growing up, there are a lot of things that as a child, I feel like I should have had– like support from my family. And I will always get that from North Lawndale. I learned my freshman year that people don't have to do anything. However, when they do, you must show your appreciation and gratitude for them. To be honest, I'm always looking back and grateful for the things that NLCP and Pact have done for me and the different opportunities that they've put before me."



On being Interviewed by Irv Lewis to become one of the first RBL Scholars

"When I first entered into the interview I was very nervous but he had a calmness about him– the nerves just went away. It's been 10 years, but I remember the calmness. And the passion that he had for the call that mattered to his wife. That meant a lot to me too. You know, when you care for someone– their passions and their goals– they become part of you. It was just amazing to see that he was bringing those goals to life, although his wife was no longer here. It was just so exciting to just speak to him and to know that he's thinking about students like me, and know that he cares. And he cares enough that he came to do the interview. It wasn't his associate, it wasn't someone else, it was actually him. That was a big deal for me."



Repairing the World through Teaching, and Returning to North Lawndale College Prep Some Day

"I really want to give back to the place that has given so much to me. I think it would be awesome for NLCP kids to see the faces of people who have walked through those halls, who have overcome adversity. A lot of times students see teachers and think that you've graduated from college, you have this job, but that you don’t understand or you don't know what it's like to be them. But no, we come from some of the same things that you all have experienced. We're only here to show you that you can make it– to show you that you can not only get to where we are– but go beyond that." 
 

Crystal's favorite quote:
"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world."
-Nelson Mandela