Music that Describes Thelesia
Thelesia Barksdale was nominated by Robert Barksdale, a family member.
Ms. Barksdale has been an educator who inspires and pushes her students toward academic success in the most positive way. She teaches them the importance of knowledge. Ms. Barksdale has been teaching for 30 years and landed the position of AVID Coordinator because of her diligence. In this role, she prepares her students and creates the curriculum in her region for students outside of her school, as well.
Ms. Barksdale is also very active in the community. She is the NPUP Code Compliance Chair for the initiative Pride in the SW Side. Ms. Barksdale organizes community cleanups with the assistance of Morehouse College, Spellman College, district attorneys, state representatives, the Atlanta Police Department, and various other community residents. She does this at least twice a month, even if she is the only one there. Her passion for educating goes beyond the classroom into the world. She is also a minister and Sunday school teacher at Salem Bible Church in Atlanta, GA. Her dedication to educating and inspiring others is unmatchable. At the same time, she is one of the sweetest, most humble people you could know.
Her passion for youth is outstandingly. Her committee to perfection is impeccable. I've watched her soar in not only education, but in Christ. She's a living testimony of just how great God is. Her dedication to the community has definitely been an inspiration to others, as she spearheads Community Clean Up day. I'm honored to witness her accomplishments and future goals. Anything she puts her skills into, Always Thrives!
Her passion for seeing others, especially youth, grow, learn and thrive is unrivaled. She has dedicated over half of her life to educating our young people with the understanding that today's investment will yield something great tomorrow. If you know her, you have accepted that she will not stop pushing forward the mission of impacting everything that she touches.
Her passion for seeing others, especially youth, grow, learn and thrive is unrivaled. She has dedicated over half of her life to educating our young people with the understanding that today's investment will yield something great tomorrow. If you know her, you have accepted that she will not stop pushing forward the mission of impacting everything that she touches.
Thelesia is a true community advocate. She works non stop as our community cleanup organizer, and addresses all concerns to those who represent our communities. Her voice has power and she does what she says she is going to do.
Ms. Barksdale is truly committed to finding new ways to positively impact her students and her community. She works tirelessly to support her efforts of community cleanup, cheerleading, supporting her sons, school initiatives, and finding new areas of change. Her mind is always turning!!!
Everyone has someone they look up to, or admire in some way, for any number of reasons. I can say Minister Thelesia Barksdale is that person. She is known to many as a educator, mom and youth advocate. She truly believes in uplifting and encouraging our youth. Minister Barksdale has done and continues to guide the youth at our church for over 20 yrs. With the passion and zeal as this woman of God has, who won’t admire such a God fearing and praying woman as this! Thank you Minister Barksdale for all you do!
Pastor Latasha
Ms. Barksdale has been a positive influence in my life since 4th grade when I first became friends with her older son as we played ball together and attended the same schools. She was a strong community leader then always planning events, keeping parents informed and making sure we had everything we needed to perform out on the field/court. I was then blessed to have her as a teacher/mentor for 3 consecutive years at Camp Creek Middle School. One thing about Ms. Barksdale was that she was going to hold you accountable, push you to greatness and be your biggest cheerleader whenever you achieved. Even today, she’s still someone I look up to, respect and highly admire for the impact she’s had on my life as well as my circle of friends. She was hard on us and dished out tough love consistently but she indirectly taught us and showed us how to show up and show out in this crazy world. Thanks for all you do and have done, Ms. Barksdale!
Thelesia is an amazing motivator, educator and person. Her dedication to molding future generations is an investment in our future she is more than worthy of this recognition!
Congratulations on your nomination for the Lifechanger of the year award. You are so deserving of this award. God bless you for your dedication to your students and the impact you have had for 30+ years. You have been a life changer for countless students!
Love Always,
Soror Shevette
Ms Barksdale is an exceptional person and Educator! She is committed/dedicated to advancing others and unselfishly gives to those in need. She is genuine and kind and brings great positive energy to her professional and personal life. Her work for children is inspiring and I salute and thank her for serving her community!
Well done and congratulations to Ms. Thelesia Barksdale! I am very proud of you and your commitment to our youth. Thank you for over 30 years of having impact and making a difference in the lives of our young people. You are not only inspirational, but an inspiration. May God enlarge your territory and bless you mightily to do even more in His name and for His ultimate glory. Love you to life! #LifeChanger #BlackGirlsROCK #SkeeWee
Tracy Faulkner ????
Soror and Line Sister
AKA - Sweet Alpha Pi - Fall 1985
Congrats Ms Barksdale! It's definitely earned, not given. Sis is hard working & loves her students
Ms. Barksdale is a highly respected and devoted/committed individual to family, young people and her community. She exemplifies a professional, dedicated and inspirational educator - believes that young minds offer the greatest potential for the betterment of our world and communities. She helps them to understand the importance of public policy and the impact it has on their daily lives. She is empathetic and so caring for her students and their welfare. She is a lifechanger for her students and those that she interacts and meets. She deserves more than these mere words can express.
Mrs.Barksdale is an amazing teacher with years of experience. She gives back to her community and serves faithfully in her local church! She is most deserving of this honor!
Ms. Barksdale is truly a Women of integrity; that loves the Lord and have a wealth of compassion and empathy for others.
She is a builder who embraces every opportunity to lay stones of inspiration and strength on the foundation of others. She is truly a people person; and would be an asset anywhere she connects.
It would be a joy to see her win this nomination in which she is so deserving; she exemplifies the meaning of world changer. She is one that do not blend in; but stands out willing and ready to make a difference.
Great educator and innovator
Thelesia L. Barksdale is a “Shining Light” upon the Hill. Shining Her Light, Passion, Expertise, Integrity & Calling upon anyone She’s Blessed to Guide. I’ve watched her Eat, Sleep, Live AVID! She Loves Her Students, She never stops working tirelessly to impart knowledge & a great example in them. Her Teaching Goes Across the Spectrum and Her Students’ Lives are Forever Touched & Changed because of her. From the way they Greet You, to the Respect They Demonstrate, to the Manner they Articulate Themselves, I See Thelesia. Yes, to her Students, She’s Their Educator, but I’ve watched her make a lasting impression on their lives. Each Student & Parent is Blessed to have this Woman of God guiding their children & this School System is really Blessed to have Ms Barksdale’s Experience and Commitment to these Students, the AVID Program & Our Georgia School System.
I have known this beautiful and courageous women for over 20 years. She’s proven to be a gifted and impactful educator. She has imparted some life and survival skills that allowed me to also have a successful teaching career.
Mrs. Barksdale is a funny and very hardworking teacher. She is great at getting her point across. I learned a lot about school and life skills.
Ms.Barksdale is one of the teachers that helped me a lot throughout the whole school. Ms.Barksdale was the one who helped me solve problems such as anger issues she was able to get me out of trouble and when I did get in trouble she would be able to explain why I was getting in trouble. She also helped me become organized. Even if it was at home I would have all my books organized and more. But one thing she helped me realize is that communication is key and the way you say things can determine what the out come will be. But over all Ms.Barksdale is a great person it’s her teaching , her coaching or her problem solving.
Ms.Barksdale has helped me in so many ways. She has taught me how to be organized and how to take notes. Also I have became a better note taker and my grades higher in my classes. Also, I was a cheer cat and for real she brought us up from where we were and we have grown as cheerleaders and young women .
Hey Mrs. Barksdale, Tthank you for all that you’ve done. It truly means a lot. It has been such an honor and privilege to be your student. As life goes on and I will always and forever remember that great knowledge you have taught me. Thank you for being by my side for the good and bad. I will miss you. May the lord bless you and continue to bless you. Btw you are and always have been my favorite teacher.
Avid taught me to stay organized and to plan ahead for everything. It taught me to take proper notes in class and apply my notes to class work and to real life.
Mrs. Barksdale is a fearless and bold teacher who will teach you how to be responsible and teach you how to manage yourself and be about your business.
I love how Ms.Barksdale prepare us for the real word and high school. I like how organized she is and tell us to do are best. Also she do her best to teach us the best she can Ms.Barksdale is a wonderful teacher.
I Love How Organized Ms Barksdale is and How Much She Pushes Her Students To Do Better and my personal experience is when I first go to middle I didn’t know how to manage my time and work but once I joined Avid I was a lot more organized.
Ms.Barksdale is a strict but very sweet teacher when you listen. She has helped me be more organized when organizing folders, planning papers and, work. She also teaches good life lessons and is all around a great teacher.
Ms.Barksdale was an amazing teacher! She helped me so much this school year by making sure I’m doing my best work, staying organized, and gave me important lessons to help me out through life!
Ms.Barksdale is such an amazing and inspirational teacher. She helped many students including me get better grades, be more organize, and be more social. Ms.Barksdale is an AMAZING TEACHER!!!!!!!!
At firstly, I wasn’t organized like I am now. I used to be off task all the time and wouldn’t pay attention in class. Thanks to Mrs. Barksdale, I was able to prioritize my time and get things done!
Ms. Barksdale helped me become more responsible and helped me manage my time. I appreciate how much she’s helped me become who I am School wise.
Ms.Barksdale helped me to get in Gem girls and it has helped me to be more motivated.
She is a great teacher and has a very bright personality.
She makes sure every one is great and everyone is okay before she starts with her lessons.
Her strategies helped me to make good grades.
Hello Ms. Barksdale,
I just wanted to let you know that your hard work with RMS Avidizers and GEM Girls is already paying off. I am so proud of Amina Muhammad (former 8th grader) and Natalia Desrosiers (former 7th grader) who served as Keynote Speakers at Renaissance Elementary's 5th grade graduation today. They are already making a great impact in their communities, and soon will be impacting society at large. Thank you for believing in RMS young students and helping the parents shape their minds to become responsible and inspiring leaders of tommorrow.
Note: They both mentioned Avid and GEM Girls in their amazing speeches.
A proud parent,
Yolga Desrosiers (Natalia's mom)
Ms. Thelesia is a valued member of our community and school system, working in multiple areas to better our community.
Congratulations on your nomination! It’s very well deserved. You’re changing lives one child at a time! Best of luck! It’s the Bee Baby!
Ms. Thelesia “Coach Honey Bee”
?? You have touched and changed lives, coached cheerleaders, counseled children, taught hundreds to read, inspired a generation, and showed the world that love is the best education! Thank you for your leadership!
Love you!
Soror Deborah Scott
(AKA Fall ‘85)
Georgia Stand-Up
Ms.Barksdale deserves to win this award because she had been my middle school role model. When i first got to her class I felt so scared and nervous as i got to meet her she’s inspired me to keep trying in school. Her energy and positivity is everything my favorite teacher in these past years.
Ms. B is the real ride or die. She will be there for you and she will get you organized!!! I will miss you Ms. Honeybee!!
I’ve been inspired to keep myself organized and be better when it comes to school and it overall improved my living space and it made me want to keep my room and everything else clean and i'm thankful you helped me with things like that
Ms.Barksdale is literally so fun when you behave I learned a lot in her class and I’ve had her for 3 years and she knows how to get things done overall she’s really nice and super fun to have as a teacher.
Ms. Honeybee is an amazing person and teacher. She has taught her students a lot from SLANT and WICOR to want to expect in a real work environment. She is an inspiration to her students and a person you can go to for anything. She has a great personality. Her students Love and appreciate her.
Ms.Honeybee is an wonderful AVID teacher. Us as a class have learned so much from her. She has taught me how to be a great reader, and fabulous organizer. She is an amazing friend/teacher to have by your side. Love you, Ms.Barksdale
Ms.Barksdale has been a great inspiration to me these past 3 years. Before joining AVID I was disorganized and was not very sure on what I wanted to do in my future, but these past 3 years she has helped me change my entire mindset on that and has helped me become very organized. There is no words to explain how grateful I am for her and everything she was done for me I am now ready and prepared for my future.
Ms. Barksdale is an amazing teacher. She always makes sure that all your work is done and she always wants the best for you.
Ms. Barksdale has made a big impact on me and my friends’ life. She is so awesome and always talks about being above average, extraordinary, and above status quote. She teaches everybody how to be the best they can be and she absolutely loves everybody even if they give her a hard time. Ms. Barksdale is one of my favorite teachers and I will never forget her!??
Ms. barksdale is a amazing and inspiring person. She is one amazing teacher I have been with. She is my AVID, cheer cat, and gem girls teacher. She knows what it takes to be a great and extremely excellent person. I know that she is very supportive with each and everyone she helps and works with. And sometimes ms.barksdale can be hard on you but she knows that sometimes you have to be hard on someone to be great. So ms.barksdale is so great and i am extremely happy for her to get this opportunity.
Ms. Barksdale has helped me a lot over this school year. i’ve become more Social and became more of myself. Ms barksdale is strong and I’m very thankful for her.
She is a strong fierce women
Here at AVID with Ms.Barksdale has been great. We have done great things here. I thank Ms.Barksdale so much for this opportunity even outside of AVID. Ms.Barksdale allowed me to join the group of GEM girls (a grant), she applied for the grant which has been great. In the GEM girls she makes sure we’re okay physically and mentally.&” We always come together as a group talking about our emotions. Ms.Barksdale is a great leader & inspiration to me.
Ms. Barksdale is honestly an amazing teacher. She stuck with me throughout all my rough patches, and she was patient with me the whole time.
Ms. Barksdale is one of the bests teachers at RMS. I like how she’s patient with students. After all, she is a teacher but, she adds her own style to everything. Ever since i’ve been her student, i’ve noticed that i have been more organized. It’s more easy for me to turn in assignments when it’s due thanks to the skill that she has shown me. She shown me how to track my time, to take notes, etc. Ms. Barksdale has really helped and inspired me to keep focus on my future.
Ms. Barksdale is a great AVID teacher. She makes sure we understand our work and that we get it turned in on time. We can always ask her for help when we need it. She compliments our work with AVID claps when we are finished with our work and when we present our work.
Amazing spirit! Great Conversation! Dress very nice n presentable. I can always count on Ms.Barksdale for a great laugh, fashion, and smiles.
Mrs. Barksdale is an awesome educator. I’ve worked along side her for two years and she goes above and beyond to ensure her scholars are rising above expectations.
Thelesia is one who loves to help kids learn. When my granddaughter was struggling she was willing to encourage and help her. Thelesia loves her students and her cheerleaders. She is determined to leave a mark in teaching and helping her students which cannot be erased. Thelesia is determined to make a difference with teaching for each child who enters her classroom. It is not just a job for her, it is her passion.
Thelesia Barksdale is a woman of greatness, intelligence, faith and she has a love for people. I have had the esteem honor of working with her on many youth, community and faith based projects. She is dependable, as well as dedicated to seeing a successful outcome of the project. Thelesia is truly a postive change agent among all she encounter. This year particularly I have seen how she has impacted the lives of many in the community by helping with community projects for speaking to youth on various Social media platforms.
Coach Thelesia has so much passion with her students. She is a motivator at heart. When in her presence Uou can see her passion. Most deserving.
Thelesia Barksdale is such a wonderful and sweet person. She is a leader, a motivator, and an encourager who lifts up anyone who needs to be motivated.
She certainly deserves this award because she has a heart and concern for young people everywhere. It is her desire that they survive these tough times and thrive.
Thelesia Barksdale is a World Changer.
She is truly dedicated to what ever she does, and always do an amazing job.She can and will be a LIFE Changer.
I’ve known Thelesia Barksdale since childhood. We were little league cheerleaders for Ben Hill Recreation Center in Atlanta, GA. Thelesia has always been a go-getter; one who goes after what she wants and achieves it. She has overcome challenges in her life that would’ve been too difficult for most, yet she prevailed without defeat.
Thank you for this awesome opportunity. It is such a blessing to live a life of servanthood and it is my pleasure to serve others. I want people to find their purpose by fueling their passion.
Mrs. Barksdale is indeed a life changer. She is very dedicated to making our South West area of Atlanta a pride place to call home. This is demonstrated in not what she says but rather in what she does, that is organizing clean ups in the area, reported places, residential or commercial that need attention. What impresses me is the fact that she is committed to doing the work necessary to make her vision of South West Atlanta a reality. I see evidence of the vision materializing by the engagement of others who have caught the same fever she displays.
Ms. Barksdale is passionate about steering kids in the right direction so they will become responsible and positive contributors to society. She exposes them to the joys that manifest from hard work, determination, sacrifices and goal setting. Ms Barksdale works hard in her school and in her community. She is a good mentor and role model for students and young adults.
I’ve worked with Thelesia Barksdale on community projects, most notably Pride In The Southwest Side Initiative. Her efforts have provided consistent group efforts to maintain a litter free environment throughout our neighborhoods.
My knowledge of Thelesia Barksdale is a very positive one and one of high Ideals. She is self motivated and determined. I would want her as a General in any war that I was fighting.
She deserves all the awards even if she didn’t get one, she will still be the same amazing person that MANY people know and they ALL will agree! Thanks again!
