At YES Prep Public Schools, great teaching begins with a deep belief that every child is capable of growth when they feel safe, seen, and supported. Through the TIA-Level IV Teacher Spotlight series, we celebrate educators who bring that belief to life every day in their classrooms.
Shola Akinwolere, a pre-K teacher at YES Prep Airline Elementary, makes that philosophy her personal mission.
A Journey Rooted in Purpose and Family
Shola’s path to YES Prep was guided by both professional intention and personal values. As a parent, she sought a school environment that would allow her to balance her career with time for her own children without compromising her impact as an educator.
She found that balance at YES Prep Airline Elementary.
From the moment she stepped onto campus, she knew something was different. The warmth, the culture, and the authenticity of the hiring process stood out immediately. Teaching a live lesson during her interview reminded her why she fell in love with education in the first place: real students, real moments, and real connection.
It was clear for her that this was a place where she could grow while still honoring what mattered most at home.
Inspired by Love, Driven by Impact
Shola’s passion for teaching began long before her first classroom. It was shaped by her nephew, who was diagnosed with autism, a moment that shifted her perspective and gave her purpose.
She saw firsthand the gaps that exist for students with diverse learning needs. But instead of standing on the sidelines, she chose to step in.
“My nephew taught me that there are many ways to reach a child… but before any learning can take place, a child must feel safe, secure, and genuinely loved.”
That belief now defines her classroom.
Building Trust Before Teaching Content
Walk into Shola’s classroom, and you will not just see routines and instruction, but you will also feel the intention.
Every decision she makes starts with relationships. She takes the time to understand each student, their strengths, needs, interests, and challenges. From there, she builds a classroom culture grounded in consistency, care, and trust.
Students know what to expect. They feel safe to try and are encouraged to make mistakes and grow from them. In Shola’s classroom, learning is not rushed, it is nurtured.
The Power of One Relationship
The impact of teaching is best seen through her students, and one story, in particular, stays with her.
Isaac entered her classroom facing challenges with routines, transitions, and communication. Like many young learners, he needed structure and patience.
So that is exactly what she gave him. She focused on building trust, created predictable routines, and provided steady encouragement. And then, something incredible happened.
“When Isaac spoke to me, it was an incredibly proud and unforgettable moment. No one had ever heard him speak before.”
What followed was transformation. Isaac grew in confidence, independence, and communication – proof that when students feel safe, they begin to find their voice.
For Shola, that moment reinforced everything she believes about teaching. Every child is capable, deserves the chance to be heard, and can thrive in the right environment.
Why YES Prep
Shola describes YES Prep as a place where accountability and support go hand in hand.
Teachers are challenged to grow, but never alone. Through coaching, collaboration, and leadership opportunities, educators are constantly developing—just like their students. That growth is visible.
“This approach allows students to thrive and gives teachers the satisfaction of seeing real, measurable growth in every child they teach.”
It is a culture that pushes excellence while building community—and that is what keeps educators like Shola inspired.
For those considering a career at YES Prep, Shola keeps it simple: come ready to work hard, stay focused on students, and be open to growth. Because the impact is worth it.
Creating the Education Students Deserve
Shola Akinwolere’s story is a reminder that teaching is about instruction and connection.
It is about showing up every day ready to meet students where they are and helping them become who they are meant to be.
At YES Prep, that is how educators deliver the education Houston students deserve—one relationship, one breakthrough, and one student at a time.
Join Our Team
Inspired by Shola’s story? YES Prep is hiring passionate educators who are ready to make a difference.