Nationwide — At 73 years old, Areulia Davis continues to defy expectations and redefine what it means to be an educator. Far from slowing down, she remains deeply engaged in the work of guiding, mentoring, and inspiring teachers around the world. Most recently, she launched a line of STEM Learning Cards — an innovative, hands-on resource that helps early childhood educators introduce science, technology, engineering, and math concepts in developmentally appropriate ways. With decades of classroom experience and a reputation for excellence, Areulia is living proof that passion for education can grow stronger with time.
Areulia’s journey in education began in childhood, inspired by women who taught with elegance, purpose, and strength. That influence shaped her own teaching style, which flourished during her years as a third-grade teacher. At a time when third grade became a high-stakes testing year, she rose to the challenge by integrating test preparation into everyday instruction, without compromising care or creativity. Her students consistently achieved some of the highest benchmark scores in the district, and many former students have credited her with shaping their academic paths and even inspiring them to become educators themselves.
After retiring from the classroom, Areulia turned her focus back to her community in North Lawndale, where she joined local leaders to advocate for better educational opportunities. Her work helped secure a $40 million investment to open a new STEAM-focused school pathway in the neighborhood. Thanks to that effort, two elementary schools now feed into a STEAM high school, providing children access to quality science, technology, arts, and math education within their own community.
This 73-Year-Old Black Educator is Still Shaping Classrooms and Changing Lives
Nationwide — At 73 years old, Areulia Davis continues to defy expectations and redefine what it means to be an educator. Far from slowing down, she remains deeply engaged in the work of guiding, mentoring, and inspiring teachers around the world. Most recently, she launched a line of STEM Learning Cards — an innovative, hands-on resource that helps early childhood educators introduce science, technology, engineering, and math concepts in developmentally appropriate ways. With decades of classroom experience and a reputation for excellence, Areulia is living proof that passion for education can grow stronger with time.
Areulia’s journey in education began in childhood, inspired by women who taught with elegance, purpose, and strength. That influence shaped her own teaching style, which flourished during her years as a third-grade teacher. At a time when third grade became a high-stakes testing year, she rose to the challenge by integrating test preparation into everyday instruction, without compromising care or creativity. Her students consistently achieved some of the highest benchmark scores in the district, and many former students have credited her with shaping their academic paths and even inspiring them to become educators themselves.
After retiring from the classroom, Areulia turned her focus back to her community in North Lawndale, where she joined local leaders to advocate for better educational opportunities. Her work helped secure a $40 million investment to open a new STEAM-focused school pathway in the neighborhood. Thanks to that effort, two elementary schools now feed into a STEAM high school, providing children access to quality science, technology, arts, and math education within their own community.
Today, Areulia continues to lead with vision and purpose. She mentors educators, consults with schools, and expands the reach of her learning resources. She remains grounded in the belief that every child deserves a well-supported teacher, and that every teacher deserves guidance from someone who has walked the path. With every project she touches, Areulia Davis proves that true educators never stop teaching, leading, or making a difference.
To learn more or to order her STEM Learning Cards, visit AreuliaDavis.com
