Hi, I’m Erica M. Burrell formerly Erica Sheppard — educator, author, community organizer, and the funnest teacher you’ll ever meet. I take education seriously, but I believe deep in my bones that if you teach from a space of joy, everyone — kids and grownups alike — is more likely to get it. And more importantly? They’ll want to.

​

I’m a school leader by profession, a literacy fairy by passion, and a proud mama who believes in respectful parenting — the kind that honors a child’s voice while still holding boundaries with love. My approach to parenting and teaching is rooted in connection, not control. I’ve learned that when you lead with empathy, you unlock the magic in people — especially tiny ones.

​

You can find my resume in the professional development section of this site. But this page? This one’s for heart stuff.

​

I am a family-first woman who builds community with intention. I’m a literacy enthusiast who believes that reading and research are the greatest tools we can give our children. And I’m someone who turned past pain into purpose — creating spaces like The Teacher Lady Show where stories, education, and joy collide in the most colorful, liberating way. Whether it’s a lesson, a laugh, or a moment of truth, I aim to make learning feel like magic.

​

My Magical Persona? The Knowledge Fairy — a sparkly, insightful, purple-winged joy-giver born from my first book, What Would the World Be Without Black People? She pops up all over the place because, in my mind, that’s what I look like when I’m doing what I love most.

​

I’m a little too much for just one paragraph, but if you’ve made it this far, I hope you feel the invitation: to read with us, learn with us, and be part of this big-hearted community.

There’s a newsletter you can join, a blog you can explore, a show you can binge, and a comment box waiting for your hello. Thanks for being here — I mean that.