Sequoyah Wharton

Dr. Sequoyah Wharton’s journey to becoming an exceptional educator began far from the classroom. A former blue-collar worker who earned his Doctorate in Education and Advanced Certificate in Educational Leadership, Sequoyah’s life experience taught him resilience, the value of community, and the transformative power of education. Today, he leverages those lessons as an art and media educator at Brentwood High School in Long Island, New York, where he impacts the lives of students facing economic, linguistic, and social challenges. 

Brentwood High School, the largest suburban school district in New York State, serves a diverse student body, with 87% identifying as Latino and 8% as Black. Many students are English language learners, and 86% qualify for free lunch, reflecting the economic hardships they face. Sequoyah recognises the obstacles his students encounter, from language barriers to gang violence, and has developed innovative strategies to support their growth. 

Central to Sequoyah’s teaching philosophy is a commitment to culturally responsive and project-based learning. By integrating students’ cultural identities into lessons, he fosters a classroom where everyone feels seen and valued. His project-based approach emphasises critical thinking, collaboration, and self-expression. Through initiatives such as the PBS Student Reporting Labs programme, his students produce digital films addressing topics like social justice and environmental issues. These projects not only teach technical skills but also empower students to become storytellers of their own experiences. Several of these films have been showcased by PBS, a testament to the programme’s success in amplifying student voices. 

Sequoyah’s impact extends beyond the classroom. As Vice Chair of WNET’s Education and Technology Services Committee, he advocates for equitable digital resources for underprivileged schools. He also serves as Executive Director of the Empowering Global Educators Foundation, promoting cross-cultural education and leadership. His connection to the local Indigenous communities, including attending the Shinnecock Pow Wow, brings valuable cultural insights into his lessons, encouraging students to appreciate diversity and understand the importance of history. 

Recognising the importance of global citizenship, Sequoyah connects his students to international peers through virtual exchanges, encouraging dialogue on global issues. His teaching incorporates real-world themes such as climate change, social justice, and cultural awareness. By guiding students in creating documentaries and public service announcements on environmental challenges, he fosters their sense of responsibility and equips them with the skills to effect change in an interconnected world. 

Sequoyah’s innovative practices have yielded measurable results. His students show consistent improvement in critical thinking and academic performance, with project-based assessments leading to an average 15% score increase. Their attendance rates exceed the school average by 25%, reflecting heightened engagement. Many have gone on to pursue competitive art and media programmes in higher education. 

Beyond his teaching role, Sequoyah leads after-school programmes, organises parent workshops, and advocates for sustainability initiatives. He inspires both colleagues and students to embrace lifelong learning, creativity, and social responsibility. For Sequoyah, his greatest achievement lies in empowering students to tell their stories and use their voices for change.