Have you ever thought about the power of self-expression before? Have you ever wanted to try Spoken Word poetry, the piano, or even the saxophone? Do you believe that being extremely introverted at a young age is something that can evolve or change as one grows older? According to Ms. Ashley, embracing these creative outlets and stepping out of your comfort zone not only helped her become one of Doherty Memorial High School‘s most talented staff members, but also allowed her to pursue her dreams of becoming a future BCBA. Although Ms. Ashley is no longer working as a part of the DMHS staff, she will forever have a great impact not only on me—one of her former Spoken Poetry after school club members from last year—but also on the entire DMHS community! By following along to this interview, you will too hope she will come back next school year.
Ms. Ashley’s Upbringing…
Q: Tell me about your background.
“I was born and raised in Worcester, MA October 8th, 1983. I was born prematurely 4 months early, 1lb and 3 and a half oz! I was on the front of a magazine and a few articles on the Telegram And Gazette! I am biracial, African American and German Irish. I grew up in our school system. I grew up playing piano and alto saxophone. Writing in journals that eventually turned into poetry has forever changed my life! I don’t know much about my dad’s side, but my parents, aunts, two brothers, and grandparents were always supportive of my gifts.” – Ms. Ashley.
Q: Do you own a pet? If so, what is their name and how has your pet impacted your life. Share a bit about them.
“My dog is half Chihuahua and Pomeranian mix. He’s named after my dad. He’s older now, but the one thing he teaches me daily is the importance of always having fun and taking naps is a must!” – Ms. Ashley.
Q: Do you have any notable achievements or awards that you’ve received in the past?
“Once I became established in my poetic journey in 2014-present, I had the incredible opportunity to represent Worcester on a National Poetry Level when I used to Slam, in Oakland CA and Decatur GA in 2016. It was a forever life changing experience that I’m forever grateful for, that has impacted my writing that I use to this day. Building relationships with different poets outside of MA has led me to feature in Brooklyn and Albany NY. Every stage, poetry workshop I’m blessed to collaborate with, giving back to teens or college students, is always the most enlightening and impactful experience! One forever opportunity I am thankful for during COVID was having the chance to collaborate with one of my favorite Christian hip hop artists Flame!” – Ms. Ashley.
Q: What were some challenges you had to overcome during High School? Any advice to Highlander’s?
“Growing up extremely introverted I had to overcome low self-esteem, bullying, depression and anxiety to name a few during my time as a student here. I’ll always be grateful for my cousin Bernard Johnson (RIP) who defended me when I was bullied. My advice to the next generation would be to find positive healthy outlets for your feelings and emotions. The right people will find you once you know who you are outside of pleasing people. Don’t rush love because everyone else is doing it. Save yourselves the unnecessary tears. Never be ashamed to embrace all of your silly quirks! Living authentically to who God designed you to be and not the expectations of anyone is the greatest gift you can do for yourself!” – Ms. Ashley.
Q: What’s something you feel nostalgic about? Is there anything you feel very grateful towards?
“One mantra I use daily is an ‘Attitude Of Gratitude’ which keeps me in a routine of thankfulness, especially on days when it can be more difficult to find. Something I feel nostalgic about is growing up as a kid in the 90’s. There’s something to say about being held accountable in tough love and empathy. It doesn’t mean that your parents will get it right, emotionally with you; it does prepare you for what you hope to find in your relationships as you grow and learn about yourself. There is something gratifying about working hard, and believing in yourself that gives you a sense of a Kobe, Mamba mentality, that seems to be lost in this generation.” – Ms. Ashley.
Q: Would you like to share a few words about a loved one? Do they inspire, motivate, or offer valuable lessons to you?
“My dad John Alafberg. One thing my dad always taught me was the importance of keeping your word, holding to your integrity, standing up for those that need it, being honest and bold will always get you respected, not necessarily liked. When you bury a parent unexpectedly it changes you forever. I never thought I’d be living my life without him, at this point. I miss my dad every single moment, and hope I continue to make him proud!” – Ms. Ashley.
Ms. Ashley’s Time Here at DMHS
Q: What are your thoughts on Doherty Memorial High School? Do you feel supported or heard at all? Are there any improvements needed? What are you looking forward to?
“I love the new Doherty! From what I had as a student here in the old building it’s massively overwhelming, and beautiful. Just like any school it has its ups and downs. I hope to retire here. The fact that the teachers I used to work with at North are here as well, is another full circle moment for me professionally. The staff were very welcoming on my first day here, and I can’t stress enough, as a ParaEducator, the importance of all the higher ups acknowledging and having conversations with me.” – Ms. Ashley.
Q: Do you have any favorite subjects, teachers, star Highlanders or other staff members here at DMHS? If so, tell me a bit about them!
“My favorite subjects in high school were English, Psychology, Band and Jazz Class! One of the greatest blessings is finally getting to work at my alumni! Getting to see some of my past teachers, such as Mr. Sullivan (Sully), my class of 02 gave him that nickname and good to know it’s still sticking! Mr. Delorey always had such fun energy! Mr. P, Capstick, Whalen, and Fay, I remember as having great charismatic energy and it’s wonderful to see some of them have upgraded their roles as educators! Mrs. Halfmann has always been thorough, dedicated, and ambitious. I’m so glad to see she is still inspiring others! One of the most unexpected things is once being a classmate with Will Halfmann to now co-workers has been an exciting adjustment! As a new worker here, one of my favorite people I’ve met and connected with is Mr. Betancourt!” – Ms. Ashley.
Q: Do you have any work, community work, or internship experiences you want to share with us?
“I love working in the special needs field. It’s also my part time job. Being inspired by this population daily has a way of humbling you daily, and some of the best laughs and challenges you’ll ever experience! Like I said before, I am a Spoken Word Artist and saxophonist; that has given me the opportunity and privilege over a decade of performing around Worcester Community events for Black Lives Matter Rallies, ParaEducator Rallies, varies Open Mics, features at different Universities and Colleges in Worcester and outside of it in Providence and Boston.” – Ms. Ashley.
Q: Do you have any goals for the future? Do you have something in mind to do other than teaching at the moment? Where do you see yourself in your teaching career in the next 5-10 years?
“I honestly hope to go back to school within that time frame and become a BCBA.” – Ms. Ashley.
Q: How do you motivate students who may be disengaged or uninterested in your subject? What strategies or tips are you willing to share? What makes an excellent educator? Are there any examples of how you handled a challenging situation in your classroom?
“Working in Life Skills after 18 years you learn it’s more behavioral based than academic expectations. All students strive to their best ability to complete the work that is assigned. When behaviors do arise, whether there is a behavior plan or not, (yelling, screaming, crying or aggressive behaviors) most of the time you have to use ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis), strategies that look different for every student. Whether it’s waiting them out, representing work demands or timing the student, it all depends on the student. It is the most challenging and rewarding part of this job. I believe what makes an effective educator is always leading with understanding for every student, learning them as the teens they are. All kids know when you’re faking and when you’re authentic. Show up as yourself, and the kids that will hear and see you actually care about them will be evident. It comes from a place of trust, mutual understanding, respect, holding students accountable, hopefully inspiring them to be their best selves long after they graduate. You’ll always hold a place in their Memories of someone who made that difference!” – Ms. Ashley.
Q: What are some of the most memorable school moments or events that have still stuck with you?
“I remember all of the students getting sent home because the pipes in the old building froze! My all time favorite memories here were in Band and Jazz Class. Having Mr. Sullivan (Sully, I am forever proud my class of 2002 gave him that nickname!) and Delorey as my teacher was a saving grace for a quiet kid back then! I absolutely loved learning the Songs and twice a year school band performances! From what I learned during my time here in those classes, I still use it to this day with every poetry performance!” – Ms. Ashley.
Q: Do you believe you can reach success despite bad grades? How would you define a ‘star’ student in your classroom? Do you think it’ll be a more difficult experience than others with a good education? What role does having an education play on an individual’s future?
“My views on education have dramatically changed since working in the school system for 18 years. Getting good grades can fundamentally prepare you for college or a trade school but it isn’t required to define success. A degree doesn’t make you more intelligent than anyone else, it only makes you smart in that particular field of study. It doesn’t mean you’re better than anyone. A star student in my classroom is having Life Skills students whether verbal or nonverbal always be made aware of their own behaviors, self-advocacy and answering questions independently as possible, appropriately. It looks different for every student but the same pride is there for all of them!” – Ms. Ashley.
Fun Facts!
Q: What do you like to do in your free time?
“Like I said, I am an Artist. Spoken Word (performance poetry), I also am a pianist and alto saxophonist. I love reading in my spare time, usually the Bible, self reflection books, and fantasy novels. I love giving back to my community, performing at different venues, colleges, universities and rallies!” – Ms. Ashley.
Q: What inspires you? Do you have any role models you look up to?
“My faith is a daily inspiration to keep me going when everything is crumbling around me and when everything is joyous. Faith keeps you humble to know that there is something greater to live for. If I had to name someone as a role model, it would be Dee-1, a Christian independent hip hop artist based out of New Orleans! Having the pleasure to meet and build with him in many conversations over the past year has impacted my artist life as well as spiritual life. His boldness and tenacity to call out degrading hip hop culture and to give generations of young people and adults a positive message with his music, merch, and motivational speeches is nothing short of incredible!” – Ms. Ashley.
Q: Do you have any values or morals you want to share?
“One mantra I daily live by is an “Attitude Of Gratitude.” To be thankful for all the small things in life, is the seed to be grateful for the bigger blessings.” – Ms. Ashley.
Q: What’s a quote you would like to share?
“Be Real. Be Righteous. Be Relevant.” – Dee-1
Q: What’s a fun or unique fact about you?
“A fun fact about me is that I am fluent in American Sign Language and am a heavy hot tea addict! My favorite colors are hot pink, black and purple.” – Ms. Ashley.
Q: What are your hot takes right now?
“My hot take at the moment is the iconic performance of Kendrick Lamar at the Super Bowl. I’m not the biggest fan of Kendrick but I do highly respect any artist that brings heavy attention to the history of African Americans. A talented Artist, no matter what their outlet is, if it brings deeper conversations of their art, then it’s successful in my opinion!” – Ms. Ashley.
Q: Do you have any secret or unknown talents? If so, please elaborate.
“I am fluent in American Sign Language and am a classically trained pianist.” – Ms. Ashley.
Q: Do you have any music recommendations?
“My musical taste varies from Independent Christian Artists like Dee-1, KB, Lecrae, Andy Mineo, Jon Keith, Nobigdyl to pop punk bands such as Simple Plan, Yellowcard, Mest and Good Charlotte!” – Ms. Ashley.
Q: What is your most favorite place you’ve ever been to? Have you traveled out of the country? What’s your favorite restaurant or hang out location?
“I haven’t traveled out of the country yet. The most exciting places I’ve visited are Oakland CA and Decatur GA for Spoken Word. One of my favorite places to visit in our city is Nu Kitchen and City Line Diner because who doesn’t love a good Diner? Any poetic venue in Boston, or Providence Rhode Island area in a good restaurant is always a good time!” – Ms. Ashley.
Q: Do you have any tips on self care? What’s your daily routine like?
“My self care routine is making sure I take time out for myself by myself. I am a natural introvert so my alone time is my best time. I enjoy driving aimlessly with no destination, blasting music I still enjoy like Backstreet Boys or Lifehouse! I enjoy working out at home; squats with weights and daily stretching. Having two jobs makes it difficult to spend time investing in playing my sax and piano like when I was younger, but I try between 10 minutes a day during the week, and an hour on the weekends.” – Ms. Ashley.
After learning more about Ms. Ashley’s journey, how has her confident energy inspired you to pursue your own goals? Would you say you now have a deeper understanding of the importance of embracing self-expression? Will you consider exploring new creative outlets in your free time? This interview not only highlighted her experiences at and outside of DMHS, but also emphasized the significance of leaving a lasting impact on your community. Thank you for following along, and do not forget to click the comment button on the right-hand side to share your opinions and critiques on this matter! To read more articles, scroll down and click the ‘Teacher Spotlight’ tag in red! Tune in for more.
Contact Ms. Ashley!
My Instagram has my poetry videos and clips of live performances, etc! – Ms. Ashley.
-
- Instagram: @wonder_woman24
- Email: [email protected]
