Music that Describes Valencia
Valencia Durden was nominated by her colleague, SanChea Simmons-Harris.
"I have had the pleasure to know Ms. Durden since 2006. I first met this energetic young lady when she came to Mount Olive Elementary," said Simmons-Harris. "My life was forever changed when I became her paraprofessional in 2010. I can recall being in awe of how she built relationships with her kids. She believed so much in those kids that soon, her belief was contagious, and the kids believed they could do anything too! She joined every committee she could during her time at Mount Olive. Ms. Durden was a sponsor for the Student Council, served on the Black History Program Committee and the Junior Beta Club, supported our Girls of Distinction Club, and tutored numerous kids after school."
"I had lost hope in some of the younger teachers joining the education field because they did not seem to have the same dedication, patience, love and work ethic that educators my age seemed to have. Then, I had the opportunity to work with Ms. Durden and it restored my faith," said Simmons-Harris. "The parents loved her, the kids loved her, I loved her, and she just bloomed. She became grade level chair. Parents requested to have her as their child’s teacher. For the 2011-2012 school year, she was awarded Teacher of the Year."
Currently, Ms. Durden serves at College Park Elementary as a School Improvement Coach. Her impact is tremendous! She supports teachers in every aspect possible, whether academically, behaviorally or on a personal basis. She meets teachers where they are, but continues to nudge them to be better for their students. Although her role has changed, she still has the ability to make teachers see who they can be, and she knows how to build relationships and trust. She’s simply amazing and a rare gem!
I vote for Valencia Durden!
Ms. Durden is an excellent educator. Myself and my kids love her. She’s great at what she do and does it well!!! She’s deserving of this award the dedication and determination she have for not only my kids but all the kids that she encounter is awesome!!! We love you Ms. Durden
Congratulations to one of my favorite people. Eyes have not seen what God has in store for you. You have been a great inspiration to my kids as well as myself. You deserve all the good that’s coming to you.
Congratulations Ms. Durden!
A real one for sure!!!!! Upmost respect ???
Ms. Durden is a dynamic educator that touches the lives of so many students and parents. My daughter was in Ms. Durden's kindergarten class over ten years ago. She is forever embedded in my daughter's heart and mine. She has attended, supported, encouraged, and has been a major part of our lives since 2009. Till this day, there has never been another educator with so much heart and dedication to cross my daughter's path. Every year since kindergarten my daughter has been in search of another Ms. Durden. I am so grateful that my daughter and our family were blessed to have such a dynamic educator and now friend. She leaves an imprint on all that she encounters. Ms. Durden is truly a gem!~ Janice Davis
Ms. Durden is very deserving of this nomination and exudes the qualities expected for a life changer. She is dedicated, passionate, knowledgeable, and builds good rapport with everyone she meets. She is a help to everyone she comes across whether it's with instructional materials, ideas, or coaching. I couldn't ask for a better coach.
Ms. Durden was my second grade teacher. She was my favorite teacher because she taught me and loved me. I’ll never forget her.
Congratulations on your Success! Wishing you the best
Congratulations, Valencia!!
Valencia Durden is an amazing educator. As an instructional coach of literacy, she changes the lives of all students in her school. She does this by coaching teachers to be the most effective and efficient educators they are capable of being. She not only builds relationships with teachers but also with students, faculty and parents.
I have only known Durden for five months. I have served as a partner to College Park Elementary for several months and been able to witness, first hand, her impact, her professionalism and how her energy lights up the hallways. She's truly committed to her craft, the kids and immersed into the culture of the school.
Best,
APA
I am amazed at the changes that you've made personally and in the lives of others. I am motivated by your life changing success.
Valencia is one of the most caring and kind people I have ever met.
I couldn't think of a more deserving educator. She has perfected her craft and is a gift to those she encounters daily.
Such an amazing soul! Thank you for all you do.....
Valencia Durden is a master teacher whose # one priority is her students. She is dedicated to her profession and works now stop to make a difference.
I have known Valencia since 2000. She has always been a hardworking and committed individual to the service of others. She has a fun, loving and outging personality that draws people to her. With that she's able to reach and help numerous individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Valencia always has a positive attitude and strives for the best. She is more than deserving of this nomination!
Valencia Durden is very deserving of this nomination and exudes the qualities expected for a life changer. She is dedicated, passionate, knowledgeable, and builds good rapport with everyone she meets. Valencia is a great educator!
Your dedication and hard work does not go unnoticed.
Congratulations! You set goals for yourself with the determination and strength to bring them to fruition. Your are a shining beacon for everyone, especially women of color. Continue to be the caring, fun loving woman you are.
Ms. Durden is such a wonderful person. Keep up the good work soror!!! I’m proud of you!!!
I nominate Valencia Durden!!
Congratulations Ms. Durden you are one deserving person. A great educator. Keep up the great work.
Congrats to Valencia...one of the most inspiration friend and soro to the end.
I have known Valencia Durden since 1994. She has always been passionate about bringing peace and harmony to the world. She exemplifies leadership through involvement in her community and schools. She is a positive individual that uplifts through her smile and encouraging words.
I had the pleasure of working with Valencia for 5 years. Her dedication to her students goes beyond the classroom. She is a tremendous teacher, colleague and friend. Her positive attitude is contagious. She is truly a life changer.
Great friend and teacher.
Valencia has always been a great friend. She was also a teacher at my son's school, even though she did not teach either one of them , she always kept an eye out for my boys and I am forever grateful. Hats off to this lady!
Dependable, smart and beautiful
Valencia is truly an inspiration and knows how to brighten up a room as she has a great personality. She is an excellent educator and this nomination is fitting for an excellent person.
Valencia is a hardworking educator that expect nothing but the best. She has a beautiful personality that knows how to brighten up the room. I am honored to nominate Ms. Durden as she is truly an inspiration.
Well deserving award to an outstanding young lady!
She is a nice an a beautiful person inside an out is an honor to nominate Ms.Durden
Beautiful soror~inside and out. So proud of you. Keep being the wonderful person you are ?
Valencia Durden is an excellent educator that goes beyond the call of duty!!! She is definitely a life changer !!!
Congratulations on your nomination!
Ms. Durden is a very inspiring educator. Her positivity is very uplifting to the people she comes in contact with. She has always been dedicated to working collaboratively with others to support overall goals.
Ms. Durden has been a tremendous help to me as a teacher. She has helped me to grow professionally. She is a great asset to our school.
Durden is dedicated to teaching all learners. She has spent most of her career in education serving students in the same neighborhood she grew up in. She always has a positive attitude and she gives 100% everyday.
She is an Amazing, Loving, Kind hearted person. It is with honor to nominate Valencia Darden.
I have known Valencia for almost 30 years! Her fervent passion for students and developing teacher leaders is evident in her daily practice. I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this award. Congratulations in advance!
Valencia is dedicated to supporting academic success for all students!
Durden is a amazing person and educator
Valencia Durden has a heart of gold. She’s very passionate about everything she sets out to accomplish. She’s a great leader as well as a dependable team player. Valencia smiles will light up a room and she always place others needs before her own.
Valencia is radiant, strong minded, knowledgeable, and positively influential. Ive known her since 1996 and she's only matured in age but has remained the same sweet and beautiful little lady with a winning spirit and inspirational unforgettable soul. Much love and respect!
Valencia is a colleague of mine and I have the pleasure of being an Instructional Coach with her in Fulton County Schools. She is an advocate for children and has a passion for growing teachers for student success.
Durden is a dedicated Literacy Coach in Fulton County Schools. She is committed to creating proficient readers. writers and thinkers regardless of student zip codes. She believes that all students matter and that they all can achieve at high levels. She is a champion for teachers and students and has a strong rapport in the College Park community.
It has been a pleasure working with you over the years!! I so wish we had more opportunities to collaborate, but I am grateful that Growing Readers has brought us together once again!! Congratulations on your nomination and good luck!! #TeamDurden
She a very good person and a wonderful education she would be a very good Lifechanger.
She’s a good person and very good teacher.
Valencia Durden is a blessing to all who’ve had the pleasure to meet her. She’s down to heart, genuine, lover of people. She’s learn early in life that people matter not title. Valencia is the real “McCoy”. I love her beautiful spirit.
Ms.Durden Is an amazing and dedicated person .
Valencia is truly a gift from God to this earth. People gravitate to her and love her so much. She is ALWAYS the same. She has words of wisdom always delivered in a kind non judge mental way.
Very resourceful and keeps a positive attitude. She has a strong mindset and is dedicated to our journey to success...
Ms. Valenica Durden is one of the best people I know - I met her back in 1998 when we both had just started our journey just a college students and even then she has ALWAYS been such an inspirational, motivating and encouraging individual. In everything has did and always does - she puts her whole heart in it - and she is truly a genuine person so what you get is nothing but the best! She has always had a strong mindset on what she wanted to do and I am super proud to see how she has followed through in accomplishing her goals and more.
She is simply amazing and a wonderful nomination for this award!
Valencia is great educator who not only loves her students but is an awesome mentor to those she come in contact with. Her smile and positive energy is contagious. She is definitely a Life Changer!
Miss Durden is truly an AMAZING Educator, she has a great passion for what she do and she take great pride in Educating her students. She not only touch the lives of her students but she also inspire and motivate everyone that she comes in contact with. If you're ever in her presence she will give you first that Gorgeous smile and then some kind of wisdom and knowledge to walk away with. There is no better person to receive this great life changing Award. For truly she has changed Many.
I’ve know Valencia for over 20 years, and she’s always been a sweet and gentle soul! She’s always been a caring person and she’s always been willing to help others, especially kids! So, her becoming a teacher/life changer was only natural! She’s definitely one of the best people that I know! It’s an honor to call her my friend!
I met Valencia in 2002 and since then I have known her to be a mentor, a sister, an encourager, motivator, and a loving person. She is one of a kind and since meeting her my life is truly better!!!
Congratulations Ms.Durden this is a well deserved honor You are turly a lifechanging. You have touch many students and adults in the education field. Continue to spread the knowledge and love to those who cross your path.
Valencia is so deserving of this nomination. She is truly a life changer in and outside the classroom. She is always willing to go above and beyond the call of duty. I can’t think of anyone else more deserving of this honor.
congratulations!!! I have been blessed to meet you! Your love and energy shines through like the brightest star in the sky!! You deserve every bit of this award!!!
She is a wonderful woman and does great things for the community to make change.
I have had the pleasure of knowing Ms. Durden for 35 years. As a fellow classmate and dear friend, I have watched Ms. Durden grow and blossom. As long as I can remember Ms. Durden has wanted to teach. She has had a special drive, gift and purpose for educating, inspiring and encouraging people of all ages and especially youth. Ms. Durden is driven and destined for greatness in all that she does. I am proud to know her and honored to share my experiences in knowing her. She is deserving of this honor and more. She has always believed that the sky is the limit and encourages her students to believe the same.
Valencia, you are the epitome of "life changer." On a daily basis, you make work and life better for any person or situation that you encounter. AND, you do it with a cheerful, giving heart. The lives of teachers and students are enriched daily because of the sense of urgency you consistently embody with day to day committments.
An amazing friend and an even more amazing person!
Valencia Durden is so deserving of this prestigious honor. She’s compassionate and dedicated to impacting the lives of our future. She has always gone the extra mile for others and I do not foresee that changing. Congratulations Valencia!
Valencia is encouraging in every way to everyone she comes in contact with. Be it through words or actions, she leaves an imprint on your life that is unforgettable. I am appreciative to work with as colleague and friend.
Congratulations on your nomination. Well deserved. Continue serving your community. Your hard work is not unnoticed.
Valencia is the example of an individual who possess patience, knowledge, good listening skills, maturity, who is willing to lead, has a good personality, organization skills, who is innovative, flexible, and has a commitment to a life-long learning. I am proud to know such an outstanding individual and teacher!!!!
Valencia is so deserving of this honor. Valencia has mentored new for the past 19 years. Through her mentoring, she has tremendously been a life changer in my life. Because of her, I am now an Assistant Principal. Thank you for changing not only the life of your students, parents, and colleagues. You’ve impacted my life more than you’ll ever know. Best wishes.
Ms. Durden is an amazing educator with a true servant spirit for educators, staff and students.
Valencia is a dedicated educator. She is committed to the betterment of those around her whether it is children or adults.
Ms. Durden is an inspiration to all around her! Working with her over the past two summers, her energy and commitment to her students made the classroom engaging and exciting. She is skilled in making each student feel valued and never lets one child slip behind unnoticed. Ms. Durden is so deserving of this award!
Amazing person! Loves kids and is always positive,smart and helpful!
Valencia has dedicated her professional career to educating children and pouring into their lives. She goes above & beyond to ensure we are creating an environment where children can bring their whole selves to school and their needs be met.
Valencia is a great inspiration for others! Keep the faith and continue to walk in the path specifically created for you!
Valencia would be the ideal person for an award such as this. Her love for children and support of teachers is second to none. She is an amazing educator and even a better friend.
Valencia Durden possesses a highly professional demeanor and a positive attitude toward all facets of instructional leadership. Students and teachers recognize her caring and compassion as authentic and they thrive as a result of it.
This would be an awesome award to a most deserving person. Valencia has the voice of commitment to her profession and the community in which she serves and supports. It is a privilege and an honor to nominate my colleague,Valencia Durden.
Ms. Durden has a gift for being innovative and supportive at the same time. She is a visionary without losing sight of what is happening now. Ms. Durden takes time to understand her teachers and the students in her building as individuals, valuing their strengths and supporting their challenges; always working towards a goal of helping everyone to be the best they can be. She holds herself to the high standards she expects her teachers and students to work towards-serving as a professional role model. Ms. Durden is a lifelong learner and a genuine advocate for education. Her impact at College Park Elementary is changing the lives of students and teachers there and beyond!
Valencia,
I am so proud of you! You are truly an inspiration. I am so happy to have met you at work, because you have because you are now a member of my family.
Valencia is a great teacher, has a kind heart, and has a love for helping children succeed.
What an honor.... Congratulations on your nomination! Continue to do the awesome work that you have been doing changing the lives of not only the teachers you coach but the students they teach.
Ms. Valencia Durden truly cares for the education of not just her students but for everyone. With her patience and enthusiasm she is able to provide the attention each student needs to learn and thrive. Valencia is a picture of what a dedicated teacher sound be and her spirits is such a joy, and blessing to be around. Any child is blessed to have Ms. Durden in their life as a teacher or a mentor.
Ms. Durden exudes excitement and passion for what she is doing. Whenever she presents she has a way of encouraging you to “buy in” in a major way even when you don’t want to.
Ms. Durden is a very knowledgeable and attentive Instructional Professor. She is deserving of this Life Changing Award.
Ms. Durden is passionate about her job and her students. She will go above and beyond to get the job done.
Valencia is absolutely the best! She is so deserving of this honor!
Vanelcia is motivator! She has help me become a successful teacher!
Ms. Durden is passionate about teaching and mentoring teachers. She’s an inspiration to her to me.
Valencia Durden is the epitome of a life changer. She challenges you to reach beyond mediocrity. She works hard to make sure you reach your full potential. She leads by example because she gives all her endeavors 100%..
Congratulations! You have my vote!
This is my First year working with Ms. Durden. I have only witnessed, and heard great things about her. She brings a positive, and encouraging attitude to work everyday, since I've gotten to known her at this school. Ms. Durden know that relationships matter!
Valencia Durden is not only a wonderful person inside and out, but has proven to be and outstanding educator and Instructional coach with the Fulton county school system (College Park Elementary). Before transitioning from a classroom teacher into the position of an Instructional Coach it was evident she had a passion for teaching. She made learning a fun and positive experience for her students. Now that she is in the position of an Instructional Coach she brings that same positive energy into helping teachers be all they can be. I truly thank you for all you do and always being there to support me.
Ms.Durden is a great leader and most importantly, always puts her students first!
She is a great individual who is truly deserving of this award
I live by the words of the late Dr. Rita Pearson, "Every child deserves a champion; an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection and insists they become the best they can possibly be." Over the past 18 years I have been able to change the trajectory of hundred-thousands of kids lives by devoting my life to giving them access to a quality education. I am completely wowed and thankful to have been nominated for this award.
Awesome and passionate coach! Thanks for your continued support for students and staff! So very proud of you and what you do to bring about positive change! Congratulations Valencia Durden!
Durden is an exceptional educator as well as a phenomenal coach! She always has a smile on her face and goes above and beyond for her students and teachers. Her positive demeanor, smile, and educational knowledge are one in a million! WAY TO GO DURDEN!!!
As a parent that volunteer at College Park Elementary, I have worked with Ms Durden for over a year. Ms. Durden is an educator with integrity. She has a passion for learning. She encourages students and teachers alike to continue learning. Ms. Durden walks the walk as well as talking the talk. She is a LIFE CHANGER.
Yaah, to the GREATEST CONGRAULATIONS!!
I work side-by-side with Ms. Durden daily. She is a phenomenal coach and friend. One thing that stands out the most is that she always does what’s best for kids. She keeps them at the heart of her work. She devotes her time and talent on a consistent basis here at College Park ES.
Durden has helped me become a better teacher by coaching towards success in my classroom. She give me positive and constructive criticism which motivates me to effectively teach to the point of assurance that my students are learning appropriately. Thanks Ms. Durden
Ms. Durden is an excellent Instructional Coach. She never hesitates to help me with my instruction when I am struggling with a lesson. She always speaks motivating and encouraging words to me. She is a very reliable person who is knowledgeable in everything that she does. I appreciate her to the fullest.
Go, Valencia I’m so proud of you. You have this in the bag I can’t think of a more deserving candidate. Love you
She is a fabulous coach at school. She listens and always supports you in everything you do.
Want to know Ms. Durden’s impact. Just stand back and watch the kids. See how they gravitate to her. See how they light up. Valencia has encouraged and lifted each child. And it doesn’t stop there! She is an awesome colleague to have and I am honored to be able to speak on her behalf. Thank you for uplifting us all and we look forward to celebrating you as Life Changer of the Year!
Want to know Ms. Durden’s impact. Just stand back and watch the kids. See how they gravitate to her. See how they light up. Valencia has encouraged and lifted each child. And it doesn’t stop there! She is an awesome colleague to have and I am honored to be able to speak on her behalf. Thank you for uplifting us all and we look forward to celebrating you as Life Changer of the Year!
Valencia is a selfless person who takes care of everyone she encounters. Valencia should be selected for the Lifechanger of the Year Award due to her willingness to help and support wherever possible. VALENCIA DURDEN IS THE LIFECHANGER OF THE YEAR!
Ms. Durden is a all around positive person who gives nothing but positive energy to others. She is very involved with her community and students. I see her as a amazing person who I’m bless to have as a formal teacher of all my children and now a great mentor. She deserves it!
Continue to change the world!
I don't know of a recipient more worthy to receive this prestigious award. I've known Ms. Durden since childhood and I have had the privilege to work with her in a social and professional setting. Each encounter Ms. Durden is always thorough, dependable, caring and does it all with that contagious smile.
Valencia has had such an amazing impact on my whole family. I will never forget her. She is truly a life changer!!!!
Dedicated, hard working and a true love for the students that she interacts with each day
I think Valencia Durden will deserve Lifechanger award because she has changed and touched so many lives around her.
Valencia Durden is a dedicated educator who not only is a hard worker but is committed to making a difference in the lives of her students and colleagues. She was a dynamic teacher but an awesome Instructional Coach. She is the perfect candidate for this award because she is the epitome of the term Life Changer. She is changing lives everyday one student and teacher at a time.
Ms. Durden is a life changer because she is the most dedicated, loving, and hardest working educator I know in my 10 years of working in education. I am honored to have worked alongside Ms. Durden for 5 summers at Horizons National at Woodward Academy in College Park, GA to prevent the summer slide in our under resourced children and youth. During these years, I had the privilege to learn the art of Ms. Durden’s creative classroom management paired with high expectations of her scholars to not only exceed in the classroom, but also succeed in life.
Ms. Durden is the definition of a life changer and I can’t wait to celebrate her accomplishments soon!
Valencia is an awesome educator. She is truly committed to every student and teacher she works with. Teaching is not just her job, it is her calling!
Valencia is a passionate and energetic person who cares and who cares about students, teachers and parents. She inspires and encourages those around her and truly sees the great potentiality of everyone she encounters. She dedicates time to many programs that focus helping students achieve more and realize their ability to make a lasting impact within the community. I truly believe that she is worthy of this award and I'm encouraged by the lives that she is transforming.
Valencia Durden is a blessing to have as a friend and a coach. The support she provides goes above and beyond and without her Inwould not be the person I am today!
Valencia demonstrates collegiality and professionalism daily. She constantly seeks to engage stakeholders in the work of bettering educational outcomes for all students. She constantly strives to grow and continuously improve student achievement. Hands down she is a life changer to many !
Your dedication and genuine concern for your scholars sets you apart. You are definitely a life changer for so many scholars and educators. I’m so very proud of your journey.
Valencia Durden is an outstanding educator who impacts the lives of children on a daily basis! She is an encourager, a motivator, and passionate about changing lives one at a time!
Valencia is definitely a Life Changing Educator. She has been passionate about her career since undergraduate school.
We appreciate all you do!! Keep up the great work.
Good job Valencia! So proud of you !
Valencia has a heart of gold and she is passionate about impacting the lives of our youth. She is deserving of this award because of her dedication, determination, and commitment
to enriching the lives of others.
I have known Valencia since 2000. We pledged Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated together. She has always had a heart of gold. She is very selfless. She is an encourager and a motivator. She is a wonderful educator and the kids love her! She is a liver of life! I could go on and on! I have nothing but great things to say about Valencia! She definitely has the "it" factor! Spend a few moments in her presence and it will be an experience that you will never forget!
Valencia, to one outstanding and phenomenal educator. Thank you for all you have done for the students, and other educators throughout your 16 years. This is truly a well Deserving honor for you. Continue to be that awesome Lifechanger you are. CONGRATULATIONS!!! I am so proud of you girl!!! #loveya, LifeChanger
Valencia is amazing. She goes beyond the call of duty. She loves all and knows no strangers. So blessed to have her apart of my life.
Valencia is a very caring individual. Someone that’s patient, kind, intelligent and very lovable.
Valencia makes a huge impact everday in the lives of others by devoting her time, talents, and skills. Valencia devotes all her attention to any task given to achieve satisfaction and success. Valencia should be chosen for this prestigious award because it fits her personality and dedication in the lives of our future, our children.
