News

Shawna Allen has been selected as the 2024-2025 Sequoyah Elementary Support Professional of the Year!

Shawna has served as a teacher's assistant and after school program coordinator at Sequoyah for two years. We asked Shawna a few questions to learn more about her and her time at Tulsa Public Schools.

Why did you want to work in education?

I enjoy working with kids in any capacity. I've worked with kids in my church; I've raised 5 kids of my own. I love the school environment with the students as well as the after-school club space. I would say that my favorite part about working in the education system is seeing the kids succeed. Being able to be there as an encourager and helping them learn and succeed. I love that I get to be a part of providing students with a safe space to learn and grow.

What have you learned during your time at Tulsa Public Schools?

During my short time at TPS, I have learned A LOT. The teacher that I'm paired with is AWESOME and has taught me how to teach in an area that I really didn't realize I could be good at or even enjoy. While I get to watch the students grow, she gets to watch me grow as well. I have enjoyed absolutely everything about my job! Each student is exceptional and comes with a unique story. Some stories are harder to grasp than others even as an adult. Being able to make a connection with every student and their story and gain that trust as a trusted adult who they are excited to see is by far the best feeling in the world.

What are you passionate for outside of TPS?

Outside of TPS, my passion is supporting our military. I am currently the Vice President of the Tulsa Chapter Blue Star Mothers. We are a group of mothers all over the country who have children in the military. In every minute of my spare time, you can find me either at an event honoring our service members and/or veterans or at the office packing care packages to send to our deployed troops.

Is there anything else you would like everyone to know?

I'm very honored to have received this recognition. As a stay-at-mom for many years, to have been invited into Sequoyah as an employee and not just a parent has been lots of fun. To be nominated side by side with absolutely wonderful people was truly the highlight of it all. I work with wonderful people!