With a lifelong passion for academic excellence and a commitment to supporting both students and educators, Rashida Squalls Chatman, MEd, has become a driving force in the advancement of math education within the Saint Louis Public Schools system. As a math curriculum specialist, she plays a central role in helping teachers effectively deliver instructional content. Her work includes modeling lessons for new teachers, designing and leading district-wide professional development, and making complex mathematical concepts accessible through engaging instructional strategies. She is particularly known for implementing the Concrete Representational Abstract approach, fostering best practices in mathematics instruction, and strengthening classroom management skills across the district.
Ms. Chatman’s educational journey has been a cornerstone of her professional success. She earned a Master of Education in elementary education with a concentration in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) from the University of Missouri-Saint Louis. This advanced training gave her the tools to integrate science, technology, engineering and mathematics into her instructional design. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts in biology with a pre-medical concentration from Fisk University. Her academic background is further supported by a career continuous professional certificate in elementary education for grades one through six from the Missouri Department of Elementary & Secondary Education. Together, these credentials reflect her deep understanding of both scientific content and pedagogical methods.
Ms. Chatman’s work has been celebrated through numerous accolades. She was named Secondary Mathematics Educator of the Year and Educator of the Year for the entire district by Saint Louis Public Schools. She was a finalist for America’s Favorite Teacher and earned recognition as a finalist for the Loeb Prize through the Saint Louis Science Center. These honors underscore her influence and unwavering dedication to educational excellence.
Before stepping into her current leadership position, Ms. Chatman was a consultant teacher, supporting colleagues as they refined instructional practices and pursued professional growth. Earlier in her career, she taught math and science to students in grades three through eight at BKG Pamoja Preparatory Academy at Cole. During this time, she became known for her innovative teaching methods, commitment to equity and inclusive learning, and the strong academic results of her students. Her hands-on and inquiry-based teaching style earned praise from both peers and administrators.
Inspired by her grandmother and aunt, both retired educators, she entered the field with a sense of purpose that continues to guide her work. She often reflects on the impact her mentors, family members and students have had on her development as an educator. Her approach is grounded in empathy, resilience and an unshakable belief in the potential of every child.
Outside the classroom, Ms. Chatman is an active member of several civic and professional organizations. She serves as the health chair for Continental Societies Inc., supports outreach efforts through the Saint Louis HBCU Alumni Association, and volunteers at True Light Missionary Baptist Church, where she tutors students in both elementary school and high school geometry.
Ms. Chatman envisions pursuing a doctorate degree and one day founding a boarding school that offers a safe, nurturing environment for children facing instability at home. Through this future endeavor, she hopes to continue breaking barriers and building a legacy defined by compassion, innovation and transformative learning.