Educator Proudly Leads A Baltimore Magnet Finance Program
Since 1982, the National Academy Foundation has been providing a successful educational model in underserved public schools by preparing students academically while also helping them to become work-ready through internships and structured business projects. They focus on five industry areas: Finance, Hospitality and Tourism, Information Technology, Engineering, and Health Sciences.
Erik F. Grooms, is the director of the Academy of Finance Magnet Program for Baltimore County Public Schools which currently operates in three county high schools: Overlea, Lansdowne and Randallstown and is affiliated with the National Academy Foundation.
Grooms brings to this position a B.S. in Business Administration; a minor in Finance; a concentration in Communication from Towson University; and a master's degree in Education, with a concentration in Technology Education from the University of Maryland, Eastern Shore, Princess Anne, Md.
What inspired you to enter the field of education?
"I have always had a high regard and the utmost respect for education and for those who educate. While working in private industry, I provided a few training seminars. I received an enormous amount of encouraging feedback; my colleagues thought I was a teacher or trainer! Once I told them that I had no experience in either profession, I thought maybe I needed to re-evaluate."
"From there, I met with my former human resources professor; and he suggested I take an aptitude test. The top two recommended careers were – education/administrator and human resources."
How does your educational background relate to your current role?
"This position has presented a valuable opportunity to bridge the gap between education and industry. Since I can articulate the language of business and education, I have been able to develop partnerships for my students to participate in job shadowing, internship and professional development activities."
"Business and community leaders have shared with me the indispensable skills students need to be globally competitive. This is critical to their success in being college and career ready in the 21st century."
How has your education helped to further your career and contribute to your success?
"My education and experience have provided me opportunities to be an effective and efficient administrator, managing the Academy of Finance Program for the past 14 years. In addition, it inspires me to motivate my students to be the best they can be and serve as an example of what hard work, dedication and determination can produce."
What is some advice you can offer others looking to go into education?
"I would propose that potential educators evaluate their purpose and reasoning for wanting to serve in education. Speak with current individuals in the profession; and establish mentors to offer perspective and insight on what it takes to make a difference in such a demanding, humbling, thankless, but very necessary profession."
Susan Brown originally spent many years in banking/finance before confronting her addictions. She has now been in recovery for 20 years.
Primary interests include metaphysics and energy healing in which she has several certifications. She has written for Examiner.com since 2009 and also writes for Om Times. Sue lives in Baltimore.
