DELORIS DAVIS GRANT, an English teacher at Central Falls High School, was recently named one of this year’s Women of Achievement by YWCA Rhode Island, a statewide recognition of the accomplishments of women across industry, culture and public service.
What is it like to return to your high school as a teacher? Returning to Central Falls to teach was always my goal. I wanted to make a difference with my teaching degree and I worked hard. I knew that I could have an impact on the lives of the young men and women who were financially disadvantaged. I once sat where they sat, and they needed to know there is a way out and their lives have meaning and value. … When my sister Viola Davis received her first Oscar nomination, I remember a student coming to me after class and she had tears in her eyes. She said, “If Viola Davis from Central Falls can do it, it opens the door to all my dreams Mrs. Grant. I can do anything. You and your sister made it.” I knew that I needed to dedicate myself to mentoring students toward their goals.
What led to your involvement in theater, from acting to teaching drama and serving as troupe leader for the CFHS International Thespian Society? My career as a theater professional started as a director. I directed my sister Viola on several occasions, so it was easy to take on the role as the troupe leader of the Square Mile players. Troupe 7651 was a dream come true. Every year I induct 10-15 students into the troupe. With the generous donations from my sister Viola and her husband, Julius Tennon, I am able to induct students into this organization. Many of my classmates from the CFHS class of 1982 have also given generously to the productions we stage every year. … I take time to organize and build relationships with actors, directors, theaters, organizations and anyone who is willing to give of their time and talent to promote the dreams of my students.
Why do you choose to dedicate your professional and personal life to working as a mentor and to improving the lives of others? I love the outcome of teaching English and drama because I value the community where I was raised. I see potential in every young adult that sits in front of me. I want to keep their dreams alive and help them achieve their dreams. The YWCA was an important part of my childhood. I remember that the people who worked there treated me with dignity and respect. The stage at the CF YWCA was the first physical indoor stage where I first had a dream of one day becoming someone. I want to continue to inspire, and with the help of my sister and other artists willing to give of their time I can help all the children I serve to fulfill their dreams and make our communities stronger. I am so grateful to the YWCA for acknowledging what I do. My award represents an achievement for women of color, as well as young women of color. No matter what obstacles obstruct, there is always a way to overcome poverty, discrimination and hunger.
How do you foster a love of English language arts in your students? I use the plays and poems of William Shakespeare to inspire my students. The cadence of language, the words, rhythm and timeless themes of love and jealously enable me to endear the bard to their creative minds. Every year I conduct a Shakespeare Oration Competition sponsored by the English Speaking Union to improve the speaking skills of my students and to build their confidence. Because many of my students are English language learners, and they sometimes shy away from speaking in public. … We learn the language and meaning of archaic words and we become researchers. It is a beautiful moment when students take the stage.
