Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Nina Price.
Hi Dr. Price, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My story actually began when I started my teaching career in 2008. I embarked upon this journey shortly after obtaining my undergraduate degree in psychology from Dallas Baptist University in 2007. After closely examining the job market for those with only an undergrad degree in a field that respected graduate degrees, I shifted my focus to doing what I loved: teaching. I secured a job teaching in Dallas ISD and quickly realized that was indeed my calling.
After teaching for a few years in various districts, trying to find my niche, I continued my education by earning a master’s degree and became an assistant principal. This was the best job I had ever had. My desire to excel was continued, as I earned a PhD and decided to become a principal. I realized that my relationship with children was limited and I was inundated with paper and politics, but I still loved my career path. I secured other roles in central office and was ultimately laid off. I knew I had to reinvent myself by using the skills and experience obtained over the past several years. The pandemic had taken its toll on nearly every school district and I was unable to survive on unemployment. A friend suggested that I use my home as a virtual learning facility, which would allow students who chose an online learning platform through their local school districts.
That is actually how NSPIRE Academy was born! I researched local offerings and tuition rates and implemented a vision that had been in my spirit for several years, especially after being a principal. My school is built on a very family-friendly model, where students enjoy not only a unique camaraderie but also delicious home-cooked meals made fresh daily. My school lunches have become somewhat famous on FaceBook, where we have a small following. In addition to a full-time school schedule, I also operate a separate full-scale tutoring service. I am proud not only of the progress NSPIRE Academy has made but also of seeing my vision come to fruition. I remember saying to myself, “This is what I prayed for, and it’s here. I’m actually living my dream”. Not many people get to say that, much less do it. I look forward to my next endeavor with fervor and respect the tenacity that business owners have to have to be successful. I can honestly say that I am not where I want to be, but definitely headed in the right direction!
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
A smooth road? Is that a real thing? One of the main struggles I have experienced would be those who are interested in the school but lack the available income to afford the tuition. It is really unfortunate that there are no government programs to assist families with alternative education plans during the pandemic. I lost a few students when schools reopened and it is always a marketing dilemma to find parents who want an alternative to traditional educational settings.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Nspire Academy?
NSPIRE Academy, LLC focuses on virtual learning in a home school setting. Students who attend NSPIRE Academy, LLC utilize their normal district curriculum but log into their classes using my home WIFI services. I have been in education for 16 years and taught nearly all elementary grades, as well been a school leader. I believe my services are unique because I am not aware of any other local businesses with the same full-service offerings. I would want readers to know that NSPIRE Academy is here to provide families with a safe, family-friendly environment, where students get individualized instructional assistance.
How do you define success?
Success, to me, is defined as the ability to look back at the place where you started and realizing that a pre-established goal has been reached.
Contact Info:
- Email: drnina@nspireacademyllc.com
- Website: nspireacademyllc.com
- Phone: 214-264-8415
