In a significant recognition of dedication to education, Titus Redmond, a beloved educator at Leo Catholic High School, has been awarded the Big Shoulders Fund’s $10,000 Impact Educator of the Year Award.
Redmond, who boasts an impressive 25 years of commitment to Catholic education, has made a profound impact on both his students and the school community in South Side Chicago.
Principal Shaka Rawls lauded Redmond’s contributions, stating, “With 25 years of dedication to Catholic education, Mr. Redmond isn’t just a great teacher—he’s a mentor, leader and role model who has left a lasting impact on Leo Catholic High School and the young men we serve.”
Principal Rawls emphasized the gratitude felt throughout the institution for Redmond’s unwavering commitment to the students and the mission of the school, declaring him “more than deserving” of this prestigious recognition.
The Impact Educator of the Year honor is reserved for teachers who have served at their respective institutions for no less than two full years before being nominated.
For Redmond, receiving this award validates his years of hard work—both in the classroom and beyond.
“Winning the Impact Educator of the Year Award is an affirmation of the work I’ve poured into this calling; not just writing lesson plans or preparing for daily instruction, but building real, lasting relationships,” he expressed in an email to The Chicago Defender.
In a reflective conversation, Redmond shared his thoughts on teaching young men about identity and confidence, pivotal moments that signal his impact, and the motivation that drives him in a career that spans a quarter of a century.
Redmond credits his ability to manage multiple roles at school while maintaining connections with his students to a deep understanding of his purpose.
“I manage by always remembering why I do this work. Whether I’m coaching a team, leading a curriculum meeting, or responding to a family concern, I center myself in the understanding that at the heart of it all is a student who deserves my best,” he explained.
His commitment to authenticity and presence resonates with his students, as he prioritizes being a supportive figure in their lives.
“I want them to feel that they’re cared for. That’s rooted in my role as a parent. I try to treat every student the way I’d want a teacher to treat my own children: with consistency, compassion, and a belief that they matter,” he said.
In his teaching practice, Redmond focuses on instilling confidence and a sense of identity in his students.
“The most important lesson I try to teach them is to be themselves and to know that who they are is enough. They’re powerful, worthy, and capable just as they are,” he stated.
He emphasizes the significance of understanding personal narratives and the weight of each student’s voice, reinforcing that knowledge is power, and identity is strength.
Redmond encourages personal growth by reminding his students that continuous improvement is essential.
“Every day is a new opportunity to be just 1% better than the day before. That daily commitment to themselves, to their learning, to their future, is what makes all the difference,” he affirmed.
Reflecting on a memorable experience that underscores his impact, Redmond shared an initiative he led to improve student attendance.
After participating in a leadership program, he returned resolved to tackle a concerning attendance pattern he observed.
A senior student was struggling with consistent absences, which, after discussions, was linked not to academic difficulties but to issues related to transportation.
Recognizing the student’s pride and fear of admitting financial struggles, Redmond discovered the issue was one of dignity rather than discipline.
With the support of his team and the school president, they secured funding to assist with transportation costs, thereby removing a crucial barrier for the student.
“Sometimes advocacy doesn’t look like a grand speech or a major policy change. Sometimes, it’s just listening closely enough to find the real problem—and being willing to do something about it,” he noted.
This initiative resulted in the student attending every class post-advocacy, culminating in their graduation with pride.
As Redmond reflects on his motivation after 25 years in the education sector, he attributes it largely to his students and their evolving needs.
“As a lifelong learner, I’ve always wanted to be a reflective practitioner—someone who doesn’t just teach, but grows, questions, and evolves. What keeps me coming back, year after year, is the students,” he said.
He finds that every new class brings with it fresh energy, potential, and the chance to impact lives.
In pursuing a vision for education that fosters liberation and recognition of students’ full humanity, he is motivated to contribute positively alongside fellow educators.
Despite his extensive experience, Redmond maintains a sense of eagerness.
“Even after 25 years, I still feel like I’m just getting started. I’ve made the decision to go back to school myself and am entering a doctoral program to push myself academically and bring back best practices that will benefit my students and colleagues,” he shared.
Ultimately, Redmond’s enduring motivation lies in a simple yet powerful desire: to continuously improve and help his students strive for their best.
“Just like I challenge my students to be 1% better every day, I try to live that challenge myself.”
image source from：chicagodefender
