Need motivation? A woman who rose from janitor to vice principal will inspire you
Article By Florence Jackson // EEW Magazine // Inspiration
If you want to reach your full God-given potential but are struggling to persevere through difficulty, the story of a woman who rose from janitor to vice principal will give you much-needed inspiration.
Pam Talbert of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, who could neither read nor write past a third-grade level, told Good Morning America "I had to persevere”—something that paid off big time.
Before being in position to help run a school, in the 1990s, Talbert cleaned schools and a nursing home, and later bused students. In order to advance in life and education, the now vice principal of Istrouma Middle School had to face her illiteracy head on and overcome it.
According to Talbert’s GMA exclusive, her children, who she refers to as her “inspiration,” tutored their mom in phonics as she also went through remedial educational programs to improve. Once Talbert could read, she didn’t rest on her laurels. Instead, a burning desire was awakened in her to help children that struggled with similar learning challenges.
So Talbert earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Southern University and landed a teaching gig in 2002. For 15 years, she taught fourth, second and fifth grade, and offered tutoring services to sixth and seventh graders. Remarkable as that was, she had no idea God has something even more amazing in store for her future.
"Looking back, I would've never dreamed to be here, but I knew I had the drive," Talbert said, standing in front of a wall of awards. "Miracles happen and you're looking at a miracle. I am a miracle, and I'm so blessed to be here,” she continued.
For anyone feeling behind the curve and disadvantaged, Talbert has this to say: “Despite where you're coming from, or your background, your history or where you live... it's going to be alright if you persevere, if you try.”
Bravo!
Watch her inspirational story below:
