Relay Philadelphia/Camden Faculty Spotlight: Tiffany "TC" Carvalho
Please tell us a little about yourself.
I am a product of the city of Brotherly love, both culturally and academically. In my personal life, Tiffany (my birth name) enjoys painting, crocheting, delicious food, and good music. I graduated from Penn State University Main Campus, with a BS in Bio-behavioral Health. I earned my MAT in Teaching from Relay Philly/Camden’s FIRST graduating class. I am a math teacher by trade and can create an engaging curriculum in technology, character development, and/or physical education. If you know me as an educator, you know me as Ms. TC.
What inspires you to do the work that you do?
"I stand on the shoulders of the Pioneers of Education in this country. I was born here, raised here, and it is destined that I serve here."
I do this work to ensure that teachers have the support, knowledge, and skills necessary to become effective longstanding educators. The teachers I support teach my neighbors’ children and they deserve nothing less than the best. I give my best every day for them.
How has Relay helped you to become a more impactful teacher/educator?
Completing the course work at Relay gave me something that no other program can give, confidence. Relay taught me about building genuine lasting relationships with the students and families I serve. I learned that teaching is an act of love and social justice, and the work doesn’t stop until we have an inclusive, diverse, and equitable education system. I am confident to say that I made an powerful impact in my student’s lives because of the process I experienced at Relay.
At Relay, we truly believe that a teacher is one of the most impactful people in a students’ life. Can you share with us someone who has impacted your life in a similar way?
The leaders of Philadelphia Freedom Schools have made a strong impact on my life. At the age of 14, I learned that our black and brown children deserve to read books and see images of our history that spans long before we were put in chains and kidnapped from our land. They poured truth, resiliency, and love into me so I can do the work I am doing today. They taught me that the reward for good work is more work.
What do you love about teaching in your city/town?
I love teaching in Philly/Camden because it’s my home. My neighbor’s children are now in the schools and classrooms that I support. It feels humbling and empowering to know that I am making an impact on their education.
Tell us one word that you would use to describe your students. What inspires or resonates with you about them the most?
My students are LEADERS! They are the CEOs, the Presidents, the Deans, and the Executive Producers of our future.
Do you have a favorite quote, movie or book that helps motivate you & the work that you do?
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela