We were lucky to catch up with Andre Clark recently and have shared our conversation below.
Andre, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?
A combination of formal education, hands-on experience, and invaluable mentorship has shaped my journey in education and coaching. I started with a strong academic foundation, earning degrees in Accounting and Business Administration, which provided me with analytical and organizational skills crucial for teaching and coaching. Later, I pursued a Master of Science in Education and a New York State Teaching Certification in Special Education, which equipped me with the pedagogical knowledge and classroom management techniques necessary for effective teaching.
A significant aspect of my development has been my ability to relate and connect with my students. Having graduated from Frederick Douglass Academy in 2011, I deeply understand the school’s culture and the challenges my students face. This connection allows me to speak from a place of experience, making my teaching and coaching more relatable and impactful. My journey resonates with my students, helping me build trust and motivate them effectively.
Working alongside the legendary Coach Patrick Mangan at Frederick Douglass Academy for two years was an invaluable experience. Coach Mangan, who started the basketball program in the late ’90s and coached me during high school, taught me the intricacies of coaching, from developing training programs to managing team dynamics and engaging with the community.
Reflecting on my journey, I see that there are a few things I could have done to accelerate my learning process. Seeking mentorship opportunities earlier in my career would have provided faster guidance and feedback. Establishing a network of experienced professionals could have offered invaluable insights and support. Engaging in targeted professional development workshops and seminars specific to education and coaching would have allowed me to acquire specialized skills more rapidly. Additionally, implementing theoretical knowledge through internships or volunteer coaching during my academic years could have provided earlier hands-on experience, speeding up my learning curve.
Several skills have been crucial to my success as an educator and a coach. Classroom management is essential for creating a conducive learning environment and maintaining student engagement and discipline. Leadership and communication skills are vital for inspiring and guiding students and athletes and coordinating with colleagues, parents, and the community. Analytical thinking and problem-solving are necessary for designing effective lesson plans, assessing student performance, and developing strategic training programs. Lastly, adaptability is key to adjusting teaching and coaching methods to meet diverse student needs and respond to various challenges.
Despite these strategies, several obstacles made the learning process challenging. Balancing multiple roles and responsibilities often limits the time available for additional learning and development. Access to specific training programs or resources tailored to the unique challenges of teaching and coaching was sometimes limited. The steep learning curve when transitioning into new roles, from a technical recruiter to an educator and coach, required significant adaptation and learning on the job.
In summary, my journey has been incredibly rewarding. By leveraging formal education, hands-on experience, mentorship, and continuous learning, I have developed a comprehensive skill set that enables me to excel in both the classroom and on the basketball court. Despite the challenges, the support from mentors like Coach Patrick Mangan, the encouragement from my family and friends, and the resilience developed through my experiences have all contributed to my success as an educator and coach. My ability to connect with my students, particularly because I once walked in their shoes, has been one of my career’s most fulfilling and impactful aspects.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
As the youngest of three children in a single-mother household, I learned the value of hard work, resilience, and service from my mother. She was a pillar of support for our family and the community, always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need—this early exposure to her selflessness instilled a strong sense of service.
Watching my two older brothers excel on and off the basketball court gave me a clear framework of what I should do. Their success and dedication to the game sparked my love for basketball. I was fortunate to have coaches who nurtured this passion, and my brothers were always there to support me throughout my journey. After playing four years of college basketball, I graduated and returned to New York City.
My academic journey took me to North Dakota and Kansas, where I had the opportunity to experience Midwest culture and learn about the Native American community. These experiences broadened my perspective and deepened my appreciation for diverse cultures, which has been invaluable in my work with students from various backgrounds.
After spending time in corporate America and losing my job, my high school basketball coach, Patrick Mangan, encouraged me to return to Frederick Douglass Academy as a substitute teacher. Although I had been involved in nonprofit work with Connective Inc., a nonprofit started by my brothers and me, I hadn’t envisioned myself as a full-time teacher. However, within a few weeks of substituting, I realized that teaching and coaching were where I truly belonged.
I joined the NYC Teaching Fellows program, began working on my master’s degree, and became a full-time educator and coach. As an educator, my role extends beyond teaching Algebra. I help students navigate their current world and prepare them for their future. I push their thinking and let them know that a world is out there waiting for them.
What sets me apart is my ability to relate to my students personally. Having walked the same halls and faced similar challenges, I understand their experiences and can provide guidance that resonates deeply with them. This connection fosters a strong rapport and trust, making my teaching and coaching more effective.
Before becoming a teacher, I had worked closely with youth through Connective Inc., which travels across the country, working on various projects. This experience provided me with a wealth of knowledge and skills in youth mentorship and program development, which I bring into my classroom and onto the basketball court.
I am most proud of my involvement in helping others, a value I inherited from my mother. It’s incredibly rewarding to see my students grow and succeed and to have alums come back and share their achievements. Doing all this in my old high school makes it even more special. Although my mother is no longer here, I know she is watching over me, proud of the impact I am making in the lives of young people.
My journey from a student at Frederick Douglass Academy to a teacher and coach has been deeply fulfilling. My background, personal experiences, and the support from mentors and family have equipped me with the skills and passion to inspire and empower my students. My work is a testament to the power of education, the importance of mentorship, and the impact of giving back to the community that shaped me.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect of my journey is witnessing the transformative impact it has on the lives of young people. There is nothing more fulfilling than seeing a student overcome obstacles, achieve their goals, and grow into confident, capable individuals. Whether it’s a student mastering a difficult algebra concept, achieving a personal best on the basketball court, or discovering a new passion through our nonprofit programs, these moments of triumph are incredibly gratifying.
Every day, I have the privilege of building meaningful connections with my students and watching them blossom. The joy on a student’s face when they realize their potential, the pride in their achievements, and the excitement of discovering new opportunities are what drive me to keep pushing forward.
Being able to mentor and guide young people, especially those who may not have many positive role models, gives me a profound sense of purpose. The work I do at Frederick Douglass Academy 1 and with Connective Inc. is more than just a job—it’s a calling. It’s about making a lasting difference, one student at a time, and ensuring that they know they have the power to shape their own futures.
I also focus on preparing my students for the real world. This involves teaching them practical skills, fostering a mindset of continuous learning, and encouraging them to be proactive in pursuing their goals. By helping them build resilience and adaptability, I aim to ensure they are ready to thrive on their chosen path. This holistic approach to education and mentorship keeps me passionate, motivated, and committed to my daily mission.
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
Absolutely. The values of community and resilience profoundly influence my creative journey and giving back, which were instilled in me by my mother, brothers, and mentors. The core mission driving my efforts is to empower young people to discover and pursue their passions, regardless of their circumstances.
As an educator and head basketball coach at Frederick Douglass Academy 1 in Harlem, I aim to serve as a living testament to the possibilities that lie ahead for my students. I strive to demonstrate that success is attainable, even for those from challenging backgrounds. My daily work is not just about teaching algebra or coaching basketball; it’s about mentoring, inspiring, and guiding students to realize their full potential.
In addition to my work at the academy, I am a dedicated board member of Connective Inc., a nonprofit organization focused on helping students find their passion. Through Connective, we create opportunities for students to explore their interests, develop new skills, and build the confidence they need to succeed. We emphasize values such as communication through adversity, hyperfocus, and resilience. These principles are essential for young people to navigate the complexities of life and achieve their goals.
Furthermore, I aim to ensure that the young adults I work with are prepared for the world they are walking into. This means equipping them with academic knowledge, athletic skills, critical thinking, resilience, and adaptability. I want them to leave our programs feeling confident and ready to face any challenge that comes their way. By fostering these values and skills, I strive to help students develop a strong foundation to support their personal and professional growth.
Whether in the classroom, on the basketball court, or through our nonprofit programs, my mission is to ignite a spark in each student and show them that their dreams are within reach. This holistic approach to education and mentorship is at the heart of everything I do.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.connectiveinc.org/
- Instagram: Young_Glory11
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andre-clark-6b9894114/
- Twitter: Young_Glory11
- Youtube: FDA1basketball
- Other: Instagram: fda1basketball
Twitter: fda1basketball
