Chiquita D. Gaylor - Biology Teacher

Meet Chiquita D. Gaylor, a Biology teacher, cheer coach, and Student Government Association co-sponsor at Jefferson County High School in Fayette, MS. In 2005, Chiquita started as a biology teacher at Oak Hill High School in Alexandria, LA. She is celebrating her 15th year as an educator and has previously worked in the Natchez Adams, MS and Concordia Parish, LA School Districts. 

Chiquita received her Bachelor of Science in biology from Jackson State University and a Master of Education in science curriculum and instruction from Concordia University. In the near future, she plans to obtain a doctoral degree in educational leadership. When she is not teaching, you can find Chiquita running her gifts and apparel business, Kuntry Grammer Kreations: Unique Gifts and Apparel. She is also the proud mother to her daughter, Ziah.

What is your personal or professional mantra?

My professional philosophy is “Education, Everyday”. I am very proud of the opportunities I have received as a teacher. These opportunities led to professional development presentations, test writing collaborations, as well as the opportunity to serve as a content curriculum consultant in various Mississippi school districts. In each capacity, I have found enrichment and new visions for my students. 

Why is diversity in STEM important to you?

There are so many reasons that STEM is important. It helps us to explain our ever-changing world based on changing needs. It is also important that we truly understand that in order for diverse individuals, like myself to have dreams,  we not only have to envision those dreams, but we have to see others who look like us doing similar things.

What advice would you give to youth who are interested in your career field?

It doesn’t matter what you do. Give the best of you every day. Do it wholeheartedly and with a Godly attitude.