Lachanda Garrison is a 2nd grade teacher leader at Bahrain Elementary School in Manama, Bahrain where she teaches a diverse group of international and U.S. military-connected students. Her 13 years as an educator also includes teaching 1st and 3rd grade, multi-age grades, and as an instructional coach in both elementary mathematics and literacy.

Lachanda believes weaving her students’ stories and identities into lessons is the best instructional tool, ensuring all students receive an equitable education. She meets students’ needs by being trauma-informed, resilience-focused, and culturally responsive so students can learn and thrive both inside and outside of the classroom. Because of these beliefs, Lachanda’s students advocate for their learning, celebrate one another’s differences and cultures, and empathize for those around them.

The epitome of a lifelong learner, Lachanda challenges herself with an action research project every year focused on student thinking, student learning, and student achievement. She enjoys sharing her research by facilitating and providing fellow educators with exciting and timely learning experiences at the school, district, and national levels. Lachanda believes a learner’s mindset is necessary to grow as an educator, essential to staying current with the most effective instructional and pedagogical practices, and important in building confidence and self-efficacy among students and teachers.

Lachanda has an Associate of Arts in Computer Studies and Bachelor of Science in Information Systems Management from the University of Maryland University College, Master of Education in Instructional Technology from Troy University, and a Master of Arts in Mathematics Teaching from Mount Holyoke College. She is also a Certified Trauma and Resilience Trainer from STARR Commonwealth.