Scott David Harding, Jr. is a preschool teacher at Maury Elementary School.

Mr. Scott David Harding, Jr. began his career seven years ago as a preschool teacher in the Teach For America early childhood initiative pilot. After teaching for two years, Mr. Harding left the classroom to serve as an Early Reading First Literacy Coach. However, he missed having his own students to work with and so he quickly returned to his previous role as a classroom teacher. This year, Mr. Harding is entering his third year as a teacher at Maury Elementary School where he is heavily involved in the school community – he has served as the Family Engagement Fellow for the Flamboyan Foundation and the LIFT ambassador.

As a preschool teacher, Mr. Harding says “everyday in the classroom is truly a combination of all of my passions: performing, planning events, building relations, and having fun.” Using the Reggio principles and culturally responsive curriculum, his goal is “to make each child a researcher—a true scientist, as they take ownership of their own educational process.”