An exceptional educator on the Treasure Coast is making a profound impact by utilizing her unique life experiences to inspire the next generation. At Samuel S. Gaines Academy in Fort Pierce, eighth-grade English Language Arts teacher Alcia Hanson is teaching her students far more than just the standard curriculum. By sharing her personal journey of immigrating to the United States from Jamaica fifteen years ago, Hanson is instilling critical life skills and deep-rooted empathy in her St. Lucie County classroom.
Recognized as a standout educator in the local public school system, Hanson feels a specific calling to teach middle schoolers during such a pivotal time in their personal development.
“I think that one of the best things that a teacher can do for students is teach them how to be empathetic, understand the different ways that, you know, other people in the world might live or think. And because I have that experience, I’m able to share that with them.”
Samuel S. Gaines Academy operates as a Leader in Me school, an educational model that places a heavy emphasis on developing proactive leadership traits in students. Hanson ensures her class is always thinking about their futures by requiring them to apply for specific classroom jobs at the start of the school year. This structured process closely mirrors real-world employment, giving students a safe space to practice accountability, build confidence, and understand professional expectations long before they enter the workforce.
Because the Fort Pierce academy is a K-8 institution, eighth graders are positioned as the natural leaders of the student body. Hanson actively creates opportunities for her class to guide the younger grades, which fosters a strong, supportive community environment across the campus. Some of these hands-on leadership initiatives include:
- Visiting younger classrooms to assist junior students with their academic work.
- Teaming up with younger grades to participate in collaborative morning circles.
- Presenting detailed eighth-grade portfolios to show younger kids what they have to look forward to and what they can achieve.
Preparing students for adulthood remains the ultimate goal of these classroom initiatives. Hanson views the school community as a microcosm of society at large. By teaching her students to begin with the end in mind and establish clear goals, she hopes to remove the intimidation factor often associated with entering the adult world. Through the dedication of Treasure Coast educators like Hanson, students are gaining the invaluable tools and life skills they need to become the very best versions of themselves.
