Indy Standard

Welcome to the IPS Employee Spotlight, where individuals making a significant impact on the district are highlighted. In this session, Deatra Cannon-Young, Administrative Associate to the principal of Robert Lee Frost School 106, shares her journey and insights into school operations.

Deatra works closely with Principal Dwayne Lucas, providing support to ensure smooth operations. Her tasks include organizing office activities like scheduling appointments, maintaining contact lists, and managing filing systems. She also drafts and distributes correspondence and manages front desk operations.

Her responsibilities extend to coordinating staff schedules and offering support services to students and parents, fostering an efficient school environment.

Reflecting on her background, Deatra said: "Growing up in a home affected by domestic violence significantly impacted my childhood. I struggled with behavioral issues, which made my school years challenging. These experiences cultivated my passion for education and creating supportive environments for students."

She has been with IPS for 25 years, starting as a medical assistant and coach at Emma Donnan Middle School before serving as an administrative assistant to the director of transportation.

Deatra shared her motivation: "Mrs. Margaret Crawford... encouraged me to join IPS... Watching our students grow academically and emotionally motivates me every day."

On why education is important: "Every day I walk into this building is rewarding. It’s an opportunity to support families, students, and even staff."

Her daily strategy involves prayer: "It keeps me grounded and motivated to face each day."

Discussing the Rebuilding Stronger initiative: "Rebuilding Stronger offers students more opportunities... I also love how events tied to the initiative allow us to showcase our schools."

For new educators or staff members joining IPS, she advises having a passion for engagement: "Social-emotional learning (SEL) skills are critical... Building strong relationships with families and students provides insight..."