Q&A with Trailblazer Ms. Tiffany Hamm
As part of our school-wide honoring of Black History Month, throughout the month of February we will be highlighting some of our spectacular Black and African American faculty and staff. Today, we talk with Ms. Tiffany Hamm - the Waldorf School of Baltimore's first Black Early Childhood Lead Teacher, and all around exceptional human.
How has your background/influences brought you to this position, and what made you want to be a Waldorf Early Childhood Teacher?
I started out at Waldorf as a parent. I loved the way my child was being taught. One day, I asked (Executive Director) Pat Whitehead if the school needed any administrative help and took up the reception position in the front office. I spent a year getting to know every student that walked through the door every day. I found joy in greeting and taking care of the children. After that year, a position opened to become an assistant teacher in the Children’s Garden. After some amazing encouragement from the Children’s Garden teachers, I joined the group as an assistant teacher. I was so happy with what I was doing, I wanted to learn more so I took advantage of training to become a Lead Teacher.
What do you enjoy most about it?
I enjoy watching the children grow and develop through play and learning about nature. I love the fact that I am not only teaching, but I get to learn every day. I also love the fact that I get to play too! How many people can say they get to go outside and play for work?
What’s the most important part of Black History Month to you?
The most important part about Black History Month to me is paying tribute to those who have paved the way for future generations. Recognizing the great accomplishments that were made by African-Americans. To take pride in the positive influences to so many people around the world. As the late James Brown said, “Say it loud! I’m Black and I’m proud!”
Who is an inspirational Black historical figure who inspires you and why?
My mother! She is the former News Director for WTKR News Channel 3 in Norfolk, Va. That doesn’t sound like much, but at the time she was the ONLY African-American female to hold the position of News Director in the top 50 markets. She currently hosts her own radio show called Another View which talks about topics from an African-American perspective. My mother continues to amaze me every day. She inspires me to Put God first, work hard and never give up on my dreams! Thank you mom! I love you!