Get to know Ixonia principal, Black Excellence winner, Deanna Burton

Posted: Feb. 1, 2012

Deanna Burton's dedication to education and students is no secret in Oconomowoc. In seven years with the district she has served as an associate principal at the high school level and the last three as Principal at Ixonia Elementary. Burton's work is not just recognized within the community, she was recently selected as one of The Milwaukee Times' 27th Black Excellence Awards honorees for 2012.

What makes you good at your job?

I am good at my job because of my passion for working with students to ensure their success on every level. My ability to lead staff instructionally while building a positive school climate and my spiritual foundation that consistently grounds me.

Can you give a brief bio?

I was born and raised in Milwaukee. I graduated from Milwaukee Lutheran High School, where I had the time of my life learning and developing as a young adult. I obtained my bachelor of arts degree in mass communication and secondary education from Alverno College. I began my journey as an educator at Messmer High School in Milwaukee, where I taught in the language arts department for three years.

I continued my education at Cardinal Stritch University, obtaining my master of science degree in educational leadership, coupled with curriculum and instruction. At the same time, I transitioned into the Milwaukee Public School System as an English teacher and GEAR UP (gaining early awareness and readiness of undergraduate programs) coordinator for six years at Vincent High School.

While working in MPS, I continued my educational journey by working on my doctoral degree at Cardinal Stritch University in the areas of leadership, learning and service. I also made the transition from Milwaukee Public Schools to the Oconomowoc Area School District as an associate principal at the high school for four years.

When the vacancy at Ixonia Elementary surfaced, I felt prepared to lead that staff and student body. Being principal at Ixonia has been an amazing experience where my passion for students and education can shine bright. Equally as important, I am very fortunate to work with an extremely talented and committed staff. In addition to my leadership at Ixonia; part of my role is working in the curriculum and instruction department to oversee the new teacher mentor program and facilitate planning for the district's summer school program.

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I've always had a fond love of writing and reading. I knew very early on that I wanted to be journalist. I can remember watching the news and being intrigued by the power of communication. I chuckle as I tell the story of my journey; growing up 100 percent convinced that after "paying my dues" in journalism that I would one day give Oprah Winfrey an early retirement and take over the daytime talk show industry as gracefully and successfully as she did.

I am pleased, however, about the career path that I choose instead, because education is truly where my heart lies.

What would you do if you couldn't be what you are now?

I can't see myself doing anything that is not related to education, I believe firmly that educators are "merchants of hope"

What's the best advice you ever got?

The best advice that I've ever been given was "never allow anyone or anything to compromise your integrity" from my late grandfather, O.C. Edwards.

Who's the wisest person you know?

The wisest people I know are my grandparents: O.C. and Brady Edwards and my mother Adlethia, whom has been the most influential support system and my biggest cheerleader along my journey.

How do you spend your free time?

I spend my free time with family, reading and shopping.

What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about issues related to social justice and preparing the 21st century learners of today to lead our world tomorrow.

Given a magic wand, what world problem would you solve first?

I would rid the world hunger.

What type(s) of music do you have on your iPod?

I love jazz and gospel music.

Biggest regret?

I try to live my life without regrets; thus, I think critically about what I do and say as well as the impact that it has on others.

Proudest moment?

My proudest moment so far was the phone call informing me that I was nominated and selected for the 2012 Black Excellence Awards for my leadership and service in education.

Describe your perfect day.

My perfect day is really any day with family and good friends.

What would you like your legacy to be?

I want my legacy to be, "Deanna always lived and worked to be the change that she wanted to see in the world."

What community service, charitable events are you involved in?

I am actively involved in my church.

What do you know now that you wish you knew when you were in high school?

In high school, I wish I really knew the real value of time because when you lose it, you cannot get it back.