The Educator’s Playlist: Honoring Women’s History Month with Music and Inspiration

As we celebrate Women's History Month 2025 and its theme, "Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations," we’re amplifying the voices of female educators - past and present - who are shaping education in the District. The Educator’s Playlist is a tribute to the songs that fuel their passion, spark resilience, and embody the power of learning.

As we celebrate Women's History Month 2025 and its theme, "Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations," we’re amplifying the voices of female educators - past and present - who are shaping education in the District. The Educator’s Playlist is a tribute to the songs that fuel their passion, spark resilience, and embody the power of learning. Music connects us to our roots, lifts our spirits in difficult times, and provides the rhythm that drives us forward. We asked DC PCSB women educators to share the songs that resonate with their journeys, along with the reasons these melodies hold meaning in their work. The songs below make up The Educator’s Playlist—a collection of music that inspires our educators. We invite you to listen, reflect, and add your own song to the mix. You can hear the full playlist on Spotify.

Dr. Michelle Walker-Davis, Executive Director, DC Public Charter School 

Song: “You Can’t Blame the Youth” by Bob Marley  

"This song reminds me that as educators, we have a profound responsibility to empower students—not only by teaching them academic knowledge, but by helping them understand their history, embrace their identity, and think critically about the world. Through education, we cultivate the power of diversity and shape future leaders.”

 

Shantelle D. Wright, Board Chair, DC Public Charter School Board

Song: Man in the Mirror by Michael Jackson

“While it is not a get on the floor and dance song, it is a constant reminder of personal power and our individual ability to make change and improve things around us. It is a charge to “be the change we want to see in the world”. The foot-stomping bridge reminds us that even small things can have a big impact. It is my constant melody of empowerment.” 

Song: Humble by Kendrick Lamar (clean version)

“This song is a constant reminder to understand your power but never be so big in your own head that you can be humble and sometimes just sit down.” 

 

Daniela Anello, Head of School, DC Bilingual Public Charter School

Song: "La Vida es un Carnaval" by Celia Cruz

“This song is a reminder to celebrate life despite its challenges. Resilience and joy help us overcome obstacles, just as we encourage students to do in their learning journeys. Celia Cruz’s ability to uplift through her music inspires me to bring that same energy into my work.”

Song: "Soy Yo" by Bomba Estéreo

“This song’s message of self-empowerment and authenticity mirrors my commitment to creating an environment where students embrace their uniqueness. The bold, unapologetic artistry of Bomba Estéreo inspires me to empower others to lead with confidence.”

 

Patricia A. Brantley, CEO, Friendship PCS

Song: "Stand Up" by Cynthia Erivo

“The lyrics, ‘Can you hear freedom calling? Calling me to answer,’ reminds me of the importance of standing up for what’s right, especially in serving families and empowering young people. This song is a call to create a space where all children are seen, valued, and equipped to succeed.”

 

Chavaughn Brown, PhD, Co-CEO, AppleTree PCS

Song: "Happy" by Pharrell Williams

“Whenever I hear Pharrell Williams' 'Happy,' I can’t help but think about the kind of energy we strive to cultivate at AppleTree Schools. The song’s infectious beat captures the joy and excitement that should be at the heart of every early learning experience. At AppleTree, education isn’t just about academics—it’s about creating a sense of wonder and discovery that stays with children long after they leave our classrooms. Research shows that when children feel happy and engaged, they learn more deeply. That’s why our approach blends structured learning with play, curiosity, and meaningful connections.”

 

Calvary Cooper, Head of School, BASIS DC

Song: "Rise Up" by Andra Day

“The song’s message of perseverance and resilience reflects the challenges students face and the strength they need to overcome them. It reminds me of the importance of supporting and uplifting our students as they navigate through education and life.”

 

Hilary Darilek, CEO, E.L. Haynes PCS

Song: "Bring Yourself to Haynes" (listen here)

“Our community—teachers, staff, and students—wrote, sang, and performed this song to celebrate our PK-12th grade community. Our students inspire me daily, and this song reminds me of our purpose: empowering every young person to thrive.”

 

Latonya Henderson, CEO, Cedar Tree Academy PCS

Song: "Fight Song" by Rachel Platten

“This song inspires me by reinforcing themes of resilience, perseverance, and self-belief. The lyrics encourage me to keep pushing forward despite challenges, much like I do daily as an educator. It reminds me of the importance of inner strength in maintaining a positive and impactful presence in the learning environment.”

 

Shannon Hodge, President of KIPP DC Public Schools

Song: "A Change Is Gonna Come" by Sam Cooke

“This song resonates deeply with me, not only because of its historical significance but also because of the way it captures the essence of struggle and hope. Cooke’s lyrics acknowledge hardship while carrying a steadfast belief in progress—a belief that change is not just possible, but inevitable. This message is at the heart of my work as an educator and leader. As the president of KIPP DC Public Schools, I support schools that serve thousands of students across Washington, D.C. Like Cooke’s song, my work acknowledges the challenges—historic inequities, racial and economic disparities, and the ongoing fight for educational justice. But just as the song refuses to settle in despair, I refuse to accept the status quo.”

 

Lecester Johnson, CEO, Academy of Hope Adult PCS

Songs:

  • "Keep on Moving" by Soul II Soul (1989)
  • "Optimistic" by Sounds of Blackness (1991)
  • "UMI Says" by Mos Def (1999)
  • "Sunday Best" by Surfaces (2020)
  • "Fetch Your Life" by Prince Kaybee (2023)

“These songs make me smile and lighten my heart. Some remind me of my youth, while others reinforce the belief that I have control over my path. No matter how difficult things may seem, ‘this too shall pass.’ Their lyrics encourage me to keep pushing forward—the same message I share with our adult learners.”

 

Kennesha Kelly, Co-founder and Executive Director, Kingsman Academy PCS

Song: "Energy" by Big K.R.I.T.

“My grandparents grew up in the Jim Crow South. My parents attended segregated schools. I don’t take lightly the opportunity to lead Kingsman Academy. This work is the most challenging and rewarding experience I’ve had, and this song reminds me to keep striving to provide students with the transformative education they rightfully deserve.”

 

Laura Maestas, CEO, DC Prep PCS

Album: "Canciones de mi Padre" by Linda Ronstadt

“Mariachi music always reminds me of home (New Mexico!). Whenever I need a virtual hug, this is the album I play. It grounds me and keeps me connected to my roots.”

 

Note:  Due to copyright restrictions we were unable to include "Bring Yourself to Haynes" on the playlist. You can listen to it here.