Dr. Dewhanne Picou-Nyivih: Cultivating Leaders at the Tall Poppy Academy
Building on decades of work in leadership development and education, author and “extraordinary” educator, Dr. Dewhanne Picou-Nyivih founded the Tall Poppy Academy in 2018. With a vision to transform the educational landscape, Dr. Dewhanne’s academy focuses on empowering teachers and educators to cultivate critical and imaginative thinking, ultimately inspiring students to tap into their unlimited potential.
Dr. Dewhanne emphasizes the academy’s unique approach, stating, “We built the Academy specifically for teachers. Our goal is to cultivate critical and imaginative thinking within teachers and educators so that they inspire students to tap into their unlimited potential.” This vision is realized through a comprehensive model of education-centered community and professional development. The Tall Poppy Academy supports educators, parents, and school districts by providing compliance and pedagogy training tailored to differentiate instruction, assessment, and teaching styles to suit each student’s learning modality.
What sets the Tall Poppy Academy apart is its team of credentialed teachers and administrators who can demonstrate effective pedagogical strategies in a live environment. “Our academy is a working model of education-centered community and professional development,” Dr. Dewhanne elaborates. By fostering an environment of continuous learning and professional growth, the academy ensures that educators are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to create inclusive and effective learning experiences for all students.
Dr. Dewhanne’s expertise extends beyond traditional pedagogy. As a certified climate and culture expert, she is well-versed in addressing disproportionality and discriminatory actions towards minority pupil populations in urban school districts. With nearly two decades of experience in education, Dr. Dewhanne has developed a deep understanding of school-to-home connections, culturally responsive pedagogy, Social Emotional Learning (SEL), Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), non-discriminatory and data-based discipline practices, and disrupting implicit bias. Her commitment to equity and inclusion is evident in every aspect of the Tall Poppy Academy’s work.
In addition to her work with the academy, Dr. Dewhanne is the author of “The Tallest Poppy – Unlimited, Untapped Potential,” a book based on her Ed.D. dissertation, “The leadership practices of African American women and their lived experiences as tall poppies.” This work explores the unique challenges and triumphs of African American women in leadership, offering valuable insights and inspiration to educators and leaders alike.
Dr. Dewhanne’s journey to becoming a leading educator and advocate is a testament to her resilience and determination. As the eldest of eleven siblings, she is one of the only siblings to graduate high school and the first in her family to complete undergraduate and graduate school. Reflecting on her experiences, she says, “My struggle does not define me; this too shall pass.” Her personal story of overcoming obstacles and achieving academic and professional success serves as a powerful example for students, educators, and leaders striving to make a difference in their communities.
At the core of Dr. Dewhanne’s work is her belief in the transformative power of education. By equipping educators with the tools and strategies needed to foster inclusive and engaging learning environments, the Tall Poppy Academy is making a lasting impact on the lives of students and teachers alike. Dr. Dewhanne’s commitment to excellence and equity in education continues to drive the academy’s mission, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
For further details on Dr. Dewhanne Picou-Nyivih’s impactful work and the transformative programs offered at the Tall Poppy Academy, we invite you to explore the comprehensive resources available on The Tall Poppy Academy’s official website. Additionally, for personalized assistance or inquiries, please don’t hesitate to reach out by calling 909-342-2075, where a dedicated representative will be happy to assist you.
Published By: Aize Perez
