Take Five with Kenyada Burks: MTSS Coordinator and Instructional Coach at Minnie Miñoso Academy

Take Five is a series that highlights some of the many members of the CPS community who are going above and beyond for our schools. If you know someone who is making a difference, nominate them to be featured here.

Meet Ms. Kenyada Burks, an MTSS Coordinator and Instructional Coach specializing in English Language Arts (ELA) at Minnie Miñoso Academy! Ms. Burks wears many hats at Miñoso, serving on the school’s Instructional Leadership Team, Behavioral Health Team, School Leadership Team, Black History Committee, Sanctuary Team, and more! And true to her love of ELA, she even leads Miñoso’s Poetry Club after school.

“Ms. Burks leads with her heart, and the data is never far behind,” says Principal Carrie Cole. “Students in every grade level know her name, and she makes every student she interacts with feel at home. Her dedication is inspiring, and she is truly a blessing to our school community."

Ms. Burks is known as a passionate student advocate who is never at rest when she is in the building. Learn more about her below!

What made you want to become an educator?

When I was in school, I was a very troubled student who acted out. But I had a teacher who understood that I needed help, advocated for me, and connected me with the support I needed. I started going to anti-violence counseling, and it changed my life. I even went on to become a counselor myself. And it was all because I had a teacher who stood up for me, forgave me even when I had wronged her, and gave me another chance. I wanted to be that person for somebody else.

How have your personal experiences impacted the kind of educator you are today?

My personal experiences help me connect with my students. I show up for them, stand up for them, and understand that they are more than their environment. In addition to my experiences as a student, I also came from low-income housing and was a single mom. That perspective helps me when I’m talking to parents who are in similar situations. Most of all, my personal experiences make me want to advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves.

Why is this role a good fit for you?

I’ve taught in every grade band, and I love being able to support the whole school. I like having the opportunity to meet the social-emotional needs of students who need that support the most. Not having a class in front of me frees me up to do that more often. Also, my ADHD is my superpower. It helps me do 50 different things at one time!

What are some of your favorite memories from your career thus far?

There are so many, but a few come to mind immediately. Like the first time I put together a Divine Nine event for the Black History Month assembly and students got to learn about college. Or when we got our new track, or when we changed our name to Minnie Miñoso. If the kids are happy, I’m happy. Most of all, I love when I hear from former students. It can be a “thank you” email, hearing about what they’re learning in high school, or them dropping by for a visit. Those moments are everything.

What do you like to do when you’re not at Miñoso?

I love dancing, singing karaoke, and poetry!