Description

In this inspiring episode of Origin Stories, we celebrate the powerful journey of Tamar Coleman, Assistant Principal at Garfield High School. Tamar’s entire career—spanning 15+ years across roles from Childcare Director to Special Education Teacher—is a testament to the power of unwavering service and a deep-seated growth mindset.

Her path is rooted in one driving, non-negotiable mission: uplifting and empowering students farthest from educational justice. We dive into what it takes to climb the professional ladder in education without ever losing sight of the fundamental belief that every child deserves access to opportunity.

Tamar shares her own "origin story," from her early life as a Boston-born Yankee navigating the culture of Jackson, Mississippi, to taking a "do it scared" leap of faith to Seattle. We discuss the real challenges facing today's classrooms—from conflict management to implementing culturally responsive practices—and the wisdom she’s gained in her influential leadership role.

This conversation is essential for any leader, educator, or believer in service, providing actionable insights into how to lead with genuine presence and joy.

By the end of this conversation, you'll walk away with three genuine, heart-centered actions you can embrace today:

• The power of every role: How each position, from after-school instructor to Assistant Principal, prepares you for the next level of impact.
• The "do it scared" mindset: Tamar’s philosophy of stepping out on faith and embracing the unknown to avoid complacency.
• The growth imperative: Why you must constantly outgrow your current shell, like a hermit crab, to keep moving the needle for educational justice.

Show notes:

• Connect with Tamar Coleman on LinkedIn
• Connect with Xhelan on LinkedIn

Guest bio:

Tamar Coleman is the Assistant Principal (Gold Bulldogs Team) at Garfield High School, bringing over 15 years of diverse and dedicated experience to educational leadership. A native of Boston and Jackson, Mississippi, Tamar holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss), a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from City University of Seattle, and Administrative Certification in Educational Leadership. Her career, which includes roles as a Childcare Director, Special Education Instructional Assistant, and House Administrator, has been singularly focused on championing students farthest from educational justice. Tamar is known for her joyful presence, her commitment to meaningful representation, and her deep belief in the power of a growth mindset—never stop growing, learning, and getting better.

Quotes:

“You might not understand why you’re doing something or if it’s going to work out. Do it anyway.” – Tamar Coleman

“When you have that unction to move... if you are on a growth mindset, at some point you’re going to outgrow the space that you’re in.” – Tamar Coleman

“Educational justice means giving a voice to the voiceless.” – Tamar Coleman

“If you want to be student centered you have to chip away at that ego.”– Tamar Coleman