In order to advance equity in education, we must first recognize and dismantle centuries of structural racism that continue to deny communities of color of opportunities to help them to reach their fullest potential. We know that Black and Brown children, in particular, have not always had access to the best schools and resources. We acknowledge that not all families were afforded the safe, secure, and nurturing learning environment they deserved. Therefore, The Hockessin Montessori School is committed to delivering equitable learning opportunities for all children and families within our community.

At HMS, we educate the whole child for life, and we model a culture of compassion, kindness and equitability. Our focus on inclusive teaching practices demonstrates how deeply we respect diversity and how we immensely value all children’s strengths. Our innovative and progressive Montessori methodologies assist each individual in developing their own path forward, academically, intellectually, socially, emotionally, and morally, as we guide them to become responsible and knowledgeable global citizens.

At HMS, we are committed to modeling humility and accountability, and for us, this work all starts with self-reflection, open dialogue, and community spirit. Our faculty and staff are developing their bicultural understanding, practicing self-reflection daily, and building their willingness to ask questions of our neighbors, friends, and strangers.

At HMS, we believe that if we seek understanding before pushing to be understood, and if we commit to talking and listening through peaceful and meaningful conversations among our students, staff and families, then together, we can advance equity and fully accept inclusivity, no matter one’s identities. At HMS, we truly desire to see people for their beautiful differences and similarities, by creating and promoting a culture of equitability in our community.  

She’s also the founder and CEO of Truly POC INC. a company that coaches leaders to challenge dated systems, implement culturally relevant practices, and cultivate the next generation of diverse thinkers and leaders.

Dr. Fletcher has almost 20 years experience working at almost every level of education— assistant teacher, teacher, grade-level chair, instructional coach, curriculum designer, assistant principal, principal, deputy superintendent, and regional executive director, just to name a few.

Dr. Fletcher earned all three of her degrees from Wilmington University. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Education, a Master of Education in School Leadership, and a Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership and Innovation. She studied culturally responsive teaching practices, culturally relevant pedagogy, and teacher self-efficacy for her dissertation research. Learnings from that very dissertation helped to Dr. Fletcher to inspire innovative program design, transform schools, and write first non-fiction book! 

Taryn’s book is titled, IN ALL LANES: Action Steps for New Leaders to Empower Black and Brown Students, Rethink School, and Transform Behavior.  During its debut week, the book was named a #1 New Release in Education Administration, #1 New Release in Higher Education Administration, and #1 New Release in Inclusive Teaching Methods.

Dr. Fletcher’s career is her calling, and as a wife and mother of three children, she can very much see her work and why in her everyday life. What she wants for her children is to experience learning environments that encourage them to explore who they are, exercise academic choice and openly advocate for themselves. That is what she wants for other people’s children.

In her free time, Taryn volunteers with various organizations who support children and families with Down syndrome. She also loves reading and exercising at 9 Round Boxing Gym.