Mrs. Kincaid's Story

As an educator for seventeen years and a mom of two girls, I can attest that each girl has a set of gifts and talents that make her unique. Every girl needs a cheerleader and mentor to help them realize their full potential! I grew up taller than almost all my classmates, gawky, and felt like I stuck out like a sore thumb. I had no clue that being the tallest person in my class and being mature, the reason I stuck out so much, would soon be the one thing that made me stand out! I used my leadership abilities to lead my class in student council and other leadership positions. Honestly, I always wanted to be bold, brave, and brilliant, but I was never sure how. I have always strived to give everything 110%.

I graduated with honors in 3.5 years with a double major at the University of North Alabama. I then was hired with my first teaching position on the day I graduated and went on to graduate with my master’s degree in biology education in one year. I worked diligently on my education specialist degree with a 3-month-old baby, a 4-year-old, and a husband because I knew I could help my family prosper with a higher degree. I made many sacrifices to help my family, but I never considered myself bold, brave, or brilliant. I am currently in my seventeenth year in education and work tirelessly as an assistant principal at Auburn Junior High School; my girls are very active in volleyball, softball, and basketball, my husband is pursuing his doctorate, and I work daily to ensure my family has what they need along with helping teens find their way. I am proud to say that I am pursuing my doctoral degree in educational and organizational leadership. To be honest, I am just now realizing that I am bold.

Most women in their late 30s with kids don’t put themselves out of their comfort zone to achieve their dreams. For the first time in my life, I see myself as bold, brave, and brilliant. I am bold enough not to be okay with the status quo and to go above and beyond for myself and my family. I am brave to step out of my comfort zone and push myself to reach my full potential. I am showing myself that my dreams are worth striving for and showing my daughters that you can achieve anything you want! I may not ever think I am brilliant, but I give everything I can daily, over and over. I urge all my fellow sisters to step out in faith, chase your dreams, give it all you have, and never look back. You may surprise yourself or inspire another sister to do the same. Being bold, brave, and brilliant looks different for each of us. I encourage you to embrace your unique gifts, do everything you do with all your heart and soul, and inspire others to do the same.