The School District of Philadelphia proudly celebrates Ms. Takia McClendon, our October 2025 Teacher of the Month, for her unwavering dedication, mentorship, and excellence in teaching at Mary McLeod Bethune School.
A proud product of the School District of Philadelphia and its special admittance schools, Ms. McClendon embodies what it means to give back to the community that raised her. Remarkably, she was once the current principal’s student in 6th through 8th grade at a Philadelphia magnet school, proof of her full-circle journey from a bright scholar to an extraordinary educator shaping the next generation.
Ms. McClendon is not just a teacher; she is a mentor, a coach, and a quiet force of leadership. She is the teacher other teachers seek out for guidance, whether it’s to refine a lesson plan, brainstorm creative strategies, or find “the third way” to reach a struggling student. Her influence extends far beyond her own classroom walls. Her preps are rarely her own; she is often seen popping into other rooms, covering classes so colleagues can take a break, and offering encouragement and support wherever it’s needed.
When Bethune set a goal to reduce the number of emergency-certified teachers by 50%, Ms. McClendon stepped up in a remarkable way. Through her coaching, tutoring, and mentorship, she personally helped four teachers achieve certification, walking with them every step of the way, from mastering instructional content to completing state and District paperwork.
She also has a heart for students who often go unseen. Ms. McClendon intentionally finds those who lack strong adult connections and creates safe spaces where they can thrive. Her classroom is a haven, a place where students feel valued, supported, and seen.
Her care extends to families as well. Known for her fierce advocacy, Ms. McClendon has guided parents in finding the best academic options for their children, even when it meant her school would lose strong academic data. Her families trust her deeply, so much so that many request to stay with her year after year, hoping their children can continue learning under her care.
Beyond the classroom, Ms. McClendon is deeply respected in the Philadelphia running community, where she previously served as a running coach for women across the region, empowering others to strengthen both body and mind. Though she once dreamed of teaching high school English, she found her true calling with “the littles,” and has been transformative ever since.
Ms. McClendon’s leadership, compassion, and selfless commitment to others reflect the very best of our District. She is a living example of the power of mentorship, community, and purpose, and a reminder that one teacher’s passion can change countless lives.
Congratulations, Ms. Takia McClendon, for your extraordinary service and the lasting legacy you continue to build at Bethune and beyond.