We recently connected with Christopher Razor and have shared our conversation below.
Christopher, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
In elementary school, I would walk lower grades to PE, run their warmups, and support with their daily activities. I was student council president and had weekly meetings with the principal. I was in band, choir, and theater. I participated in spelling bees, oratorical contests, and the Math Olympics. I loved school! Even more, I knew I wanted to be a teacher. When I was deciding on a major in college, however, I was not committed and chose a different route. After graduation, I was given an opportunity to teach in South Korea. It was an experience I’ll cherish forever. It opened my eyes to the possibilities of learning and being part of something generations could benefit from. Being a teacher is more than just instruction, it’s showing up every day and supporting the social and emotional development of young minds. It’s hugs and tough conversations. It’s lunch bunches and after school tutoring. It’s a commitment I now know is my purpose, and I’ve enjoyed every single moment!
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
Professionally, I work for Baltimore City Public Schools in the Office of Whole Child Services and Support as a Climate Coach. The most exciting part of my job is visiting different schools and experiencing the unique ways students are learning and growing, particularly socially and emotionally. As a coach, I support school and climate leaders in developing strategic plans to ensure students feel seen, heard, and valued. Personally, however, I strive to be a model for Black boys, showing how important school is, and how learning and growing impacts not just ourselves, but our communities.
Additionally, I am a 3rd-year PhD student studying Educational Psychology at Howard University. To be transparent, it’s a tough program, but I have the support of some amazing cohort members, and a circle of believers who continue to encourage me. My passion for how the education system builds the next generation is due to the teachers I’ve had. Every student deserves to experience a caring educator, and my research aims to guarantee just that. Yes, it’s a lofty goal, but I never wanted to just reach for the stars!
Finally, I can now say I am a published author! The book, ‘To Teach or Not To Teach,’ is a co-authored book that focuses on sharing the stories of individuals who made the decision to stay in the classroom or go beyond it in order to drive the success of students. I’m really excited about it, and I know it won’t be the only opportunity I have to share my experiences and expertise.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Picking specific qualities is tough because educating minds is not easy! But, I’d have to select compassion as a quality, connection as a skill, and the knowledge of how systems in our country were built to improve some and impair others. Students of all ages are depending on individuals to commit to dismantling disadvantages in thinking and embrace changes, such as artificial intelligence. My advice would be, in order to teach, continue to learn. Learn about yourself and the biases you carry. Learn about the families, neighborhoods, and cities you serve. Learn about breakthroughs in development. Most of all, have patience and have fun!
What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?
For years, I would shut down and isolate. Eventually, I was able to name it as severe anxiety and receive the support I needed. Today, I am a year post medication and have been the happiest I’ve ever been! So, my advice would be to seek support. Therapy is important. Exercise is freeing. Prayer still works!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linqapp.com/christopher_razor?r=link
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/c.allenrazor?igsh=cmZva205dmNzYmdr&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/EScEp6XmMvvAWYDQ/?mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-razor?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
- Other: https://www.theclassroomceo.org/christopher
Image Credits
Simona Kay
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