Brittany Harris, 34
Educator/area learning coach, Hamilton County Schools; Co-creator, The Passage mobile classroom
Mantra: #persevereandalwaysseekmore
Quarantine projects: I thought I would read several books, plant flowers, paint and cook. However, I have read two books, thought about where I could plant flowers, painted my bathroom, and cooked diligently the first week and then continued to get takeout.
What's one thing you couldn't live without? I would not want to live without running. This is the release I enjoy throughout the week. I enjoy the time to 'let go and let God.'
What motivates you? Challenges and problems. I enjoy being a problem solver. This is the drive that allows me to focus and put my ideas into action and find solutions.
What's one thing about Chattanooga you'd change? I enjoy all parts of Chattanooga, from the outdoors to the community. I would like to see more local business within our city.
How did you remain productive amid the pandemic? Getting up and not being surrounded by students, teachers and leaders daily was difficult. The virtual learning platform did provide for the opportunity for me to still see them visually. Our district also provided the opportunity for students to receive the resources they needed to be successful. Technology, school supplies and food were just a few ways schools provided for families during the pandemic. This also allowed for me to remain productive, knowing that our families and teachers were receiving the resources they needed to continue learning.
One thing you wish you'd known at the start of your career? Perseverance is the main ingredient to being successful. This is the force that will set you apart from others. Make sure you always seek more and keep going forth.
What (else) did you want to be when you grew up? I wanted to be a pharmacist when I was younger. I enjoyed our local pharmacy in my hometown. It had a post office, milkshakes, and a store embedded. Our pharmacist was also kind and full of knowledge. I thought, that is what I want to be. Plus, on my break I can have a milkshake!
What's something you can't have in your house? Cookies. I enjoy them all: chocolate chip, strawberry cheesecake, but my favorite is oatmeal raisin. If I do, I will indulge wholeheartedly. These are my Achilles' heels.