Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Shannon Stones. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Shannon, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

One of the most meaningful projects I’ve worked on was a vision board party with my cousins a couple of years ago. For those unfamiliar, a vision board is a collage of images and quotes that represent your aspirations and dreams. At that time, I was grappling with personal challenges and struggling with self-doubt.

Creating the vision board was a transformative experience for me; it allowed me to articulate my goals and visualize a brighter future. Fast forward to today, I’m proud to say that I’ve achieved several of the goals I set out on that board.

What makes this project truly special is that I’ve since adapted the concept for my students, guiding them in creating their own vision boards to help them identify and work toward their dreams. Seeing their excitement and ambition has reinforced my belief in the power of visualization and goal-setting, making this experience particularly meaningful to me.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I found my way into the field of education during a challenging time in my life. As a single parent, I was searching for a job that would allow me to support my child while aligning with daycare hours. A relative introduced me to a temporary substitute agency, and I began my journey in education. After a couple of years in the classroom, I decided to further my career by pursuing a graduate degree in education.

During my final semester, as I was student teaching, I encountered a significant shift. Not only did I delve into the science of teaching, but I also had to adapt to the digital landscape of education. This evolution prompted me to rethink my lesson plans, and I chose to focus on environmental science. I discovered a compelling curriculum from Philadelphia Water Works that centered on the city’s watershed, which sparked my interest.

Reflecting on my past volunteer experiences with Outward Bound, where I helped clean up the Schuylkill River, I felt inspired to make a broader impact. This led me to establish Philabag, a community service nonprofit aimed at environmental education and stewardship. My vision for Philabag is to eventually expand into an educational center that not only teaches students about environmental issues but also encourages them to actively participate in solutions.

What sets me apart is my commitment to merging education with community service, fostering a sense of responsibility and empowerment in my students. I’m proud of the connections I’ve built and the tangible difference I’ve made in my community through both my teaching and Philabag.

I want potential clients, followers, and supporters to know that my work is driven by a deep passion for education and environmental advocacy. I believe in the power of hands-on learning and community involvement, and I’m dedicated to inspiring the next generation to care for our planet.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

Growing up, my mother didn’t allow me to chat in game rooms or use AOL Messenger, which instilled a sense of caution about online interactions. As a result, I’ve always been somewhat hesitant about social media.

However, I’ve come to realize that social media is a vital networking tool in today’s world. It offers a platform to connect with others and share your mission. I’ve unlearned the fear of these platforms by understanding that how you present yourself online doesn’t have to compromise your character—as long as you stay true to yourself and your values. Embracing social media has allowed me to amplify my work and connect with like-minded individuals in the education and environmental fields.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

My journey as a single parent has been a testament to resilience. When I first found myself in that position, I struggled to find a way to support my child while managing the challenges that came with it. There were moments of doubt and uncertainty, but I knew I had to push through.

I started by taking on temporary substitute teaching roles, which allowed me to align my work schedule with my child’s daycare. Each day presented new challenges, but I learned to adapt and persevere. As I gained experience, I realized my passion for education and decided to pursue a graduate degree.

That decision was pivotal. Balancing studies with parenting required immense dedication, but I remained focused on creating a better future for us. Today, reflecting on how far I’ve come—from those early struggles to now having the opportunity for this interview—truly illustrates my resilience. It’s a reminder that with determination and hard work, you can transform your circumstances and inspire others along the way.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @Phila_bag
• Other: @pajorganics

Image Credits

Wellness Health
Macy’s