In honor of Veterans Day, SESI thanks the dedicated educators within our family for their service. From their roles within the United States Armed Forces to classrooms throughout the country, these teachers bring unique skills and experiences to the classroom, where they foster compassion, structure, and resilience. Their stories remind us of the meaningful contributions veterans make in the world of education and the invaluable role they play in shaping young lives.
Laura Langley
Teacher’s aide, High Road of Wright City
United States Navy
“I love this job. The military taught me patience, not to take anything personal, and the ability to keep my composure, all that comes in handy when working with children. For anyone currently in the military, I would tell them that it prepares you for a career in education in ways you wouldn’t even think about. The training and leadership instilled in you allows you to train the younger staff members – you are built for this.”
Yolanda Kemp
Lead behavior and special education teacher, Maryland Eastern Shore High Road
United States Navy Reserve and Air National Guard- U.S. Air Force
“Teaching is my passion. I’ve seen a lot of traumas in the military and in my life, so I am able to help my students overcome theirs.”
Joshua Keeton
Teaching assistant, Maryland Eastern Shore High Road
United States Army
“The military taught me patience, to be thick-skinned, how to deal with stress well and keep a level head. The structure you get in the military carries over well to a career in education. You gain the training to deal with stressful situations. And as everyone is taught to be a trainer, you already know how to be a teacher.”
Shelby Williams
SCI Teacher, High Road School of Santa Rosa
Senior Airman, United States Air Force Reserves
“Teaching is not for the weak as neither is the military. It takes a want and will to do both careers and you certainly have to have both to be a teacher. I love that not everyone can do this, it’s hard, but knowing that I am impacting a child’s life forever in a positive manner makes it all worth it.”
Carl Blackmon, Jr.
Director, High Road School of Santa Rosa
United States Army
“Education and the military go hand in hand. There are many similarities between the two professions, including a lot of structure and a chain of command. When you first join the Army, you don’t realize what is being taught – how to have patience and how to lead. Every individual is primed for leadership and that has transitioned to my job. It’s a learning environment and we all make each other better.”
Bryon Bass
Science and social studies teacher, Valdosta City School of Scholars
United States Air Force
“The military taught me to think through so I can push through. I think prior military personnel are prime for teaching because we’re disciplined, driven and will bring structure to the classroom.”
Janel Lowe
Teacher, Henry County School of Scholars
United States Air Force
“My military experience prepared me to work in education by providing me with the skills of structure and discipline and how to overcome adversity.”
Anthony Roberston
Associate Director, FCS PEAK Academy- Roswell
United States Navy
“The Navy taught me discipline and focus that would later prepare me for a career in education.”
