Spotlight: Krissy Long (MS '23)

Mississippi Milken Educator Krissy Long is committed to creating a safe space in her classroom while also fostering self-confidence, growth and accountability in her students. Her hands-on approach to teaching allows students to make real-world connections to their math and science lessons. With the help of reading materials created by her small business, The Local Authority, students across Mississippi have the resources to apply practical math concepts in their own lives. Krissy received a 2023-24 Mississippi Milken Educator Award in Philadelphia on January 10, 2024.

Milken Family Foundation: How have students responded since your Milken Educator Award surprise?

Krissy Long (MS '23): Since receiving the Milken Educator Award, my students have been incredibly proud. They have taken greater ownership of our classroom, realizing the impact they can make on the world. This recognition has also made them more aware of my responsibility towards their future. They have started asking more job-specific questions when learning new standards, showing a newfound curiosity and ambition. The Award has opened their eyes to the wider world beyond Philadelphia, Mississippi, inspiring them to aspire to change the world one job at a time. 

MFF: Who are your role models as an educator?

Long: A pivotal moment in my education occurred during my senior year when Mrs. Mandy Feasel, my English teacher, assigned us to write about a personal hero. Despite struggling with dyslexia, I wrote an essay about a departed friend. Mrs. Feasel's feedback was transformative; instead of the usual red ink corrections, she gave me a 98% and a note that said, "Well done, little one." This was a significant shift in my life goals. Although my mother, who knew the hardships of teaching in rural Mississippi, had reservations, I felt a divine calling towards education. This experience ignited my passion for teaching and shaped my motivation to help others navigate their educational journeys. 

MFF: Tell us about your first year of teaching. 

Long: My first year of teaching began in January in a fifth-grade math class with students who had already had three other teachers. Despite the challenges, these students were eager to learn and have someone who would stay with them. Together, we built a classroom community that fostered self-confidence, growth, accountability, and teamwork. Although there were tough days, I was reminded of my purpose: to create a safe learning space for all students to achieve their goals. Watching those buses pull away on the last day, knowing some students would be safe while others faced uncertainty, was unforgettable. This group graduated high school this year, and many returned to congratulate me on my Award. I told them the greatest reward was seeing them graduate with the skills and confidence to achieve anything. 

MFF: What do you hope students remember from their time with you?

Long: I hope students remember how much I care. I want them to recall that I took the time to listen to their needs, fears and joys. I hope they remember to always take a breath and recognize the importance of their lives in this world and to me. 

MFF: Your hands-on approach makes learning an immersive experience for your students. Can you describe some of the real-life applications you use to teach math and science concepts that resonate the most with students? Do you have a favorite project or unit? 

Long: In my fifth-grade math classroom, students often ask, “Why are we learning this?” To address this, I anchor each lesson to real-world scenarios and local resources. For example, when teaching operations with decimals, I use a local Mexican restaurant menu for activities like creating orders, managing budgets, and estimating change. This hands-on approach has increased skill proficiency from 60% to 80%. Additionally, I co-own a small business called The Local Authority, which creates relevant reading materials for students in Mississippi. This approach helps students connect with the material, understand concepts better, and appreciate the practical applications of math in everyday life. 

MFF: What advice would you share with people who are interested in becoming teachers?

Long: Teaching is the most rewarding profession. I believe teachers are born with a passion for helping and guiding others. My advice for new or aspiring teachers is to give it your all. Build partnerships within your school, state or professional network to keep your ideas fresh. Always remember your “why.” If your decisions do not align with your “why,” reevaluate the situation. The students are always first, and you have their future in your hands. Be their positive, guiding light! 

Watch our interview with Krissy Long (MS '23) on the day of her Milken Award notification: