Cynovia Hall's path to YES Prep is a testament to her passion for education and leadership development. With a bachelor's degree in interdisciplinary studies from Texas State University and a master's degree in education with a specialization in teacher leadership from the University of St. Thomas, Hall began her career as a teacher and quickly advanced into leadership roles. Her experiences at various schools, including Kashmere Gardens Elementary and Democracy Prep Congress Heights, helped her build a strong foundation in instructional leadership and school management.
However, it was the influence of a close friend, Clorena Simmons, a fellow Teach For America Corps member, that ultimately led her to join YES Prep. Clorena’s unwavering commitment to YES Prep inspired Hall during a pivotal moment in her career. After weighing two significant offers—a principalship in her current district and a resident principal role at YES Prep—Clorena’s simple yet profound advice, "You deserve to be poured into as much as you pour into others," resonated deeply. Shortly thereafter, Hall accepted the offer at YES Prep, marking the beginning of a rewarding journey that started in 2020.
Leadership Philosophy
Hall's leadership at YES Prep Airline Elementary is characterized by her dedication to professional development and teacher growth. One of her key strategies has been the establishment of an internal professional development series, which has led to an impressive teacher retention rate of 89% and a strong average teacher rating. Through a combination of coaching, observations, modeling and data analysis, Hall ensures that the instructional practices at her school are constantly evolving and improving. This focus enhances student education quality and fosters a culture of continuous learning and growth among the staff.
Impactful Relationships
Among the many relationships that have shaped Hall’s experience at YES Prep, her connection with a student named Messiah stands out. When she first met Messiah, he was facing significant academic and social challenges, compounded by his parents' mistrust of the education system. As both his principal and his 2nd-grade instructional coach, Hall worked closely with his special education teacher to provide tailored support, ensuring Messiah received the inclusion services he needed.
The turning point in their relationship came during a family-teacher conference with Messiah’s parents, where Hall emphasized the importance of a united commitment to his education. This meeting marked the beginning of a transformative journey for Messiah. With the support and belief of his educators, he not only improved academically but also succeeded in meeting his goals on his first STAAR test. Messiah’s success is a powerful reminder of the impact that a dedicated educator can have on a child’s life, and it continues to inspire Cynovia in her role as a leader.
Hall’s journey and her commitment to fostering a culture of excellence at YES Prep Airline Elementary have not gone unnoticed. As a recipient of the 2024 Virani Distinguished School Leader Award, Cynovia is recognized for her exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to her students and staff. Her story is a testament to the profound impact that passionate and driven leaders can have on their communities.