When Tammy Darden reflects on her journey to the Street School, she sees a path shaped by unexpected turns and a steady pull toward education. She once envisioned a career in international relations, studying history, French, and psychology with plans to join the Peace Corps and getting a job in an embassy. Her life, however, took a different direction. After working in logistics, college recruiting, and raising her children, Tammy found her way into schools through volunteering, first in her children’s classrooms and later through the PTA.

That early involvement soon grew into something more meaningful. Just before COVID, Tammy and a group of friends began delivering lunches to teachers in Title I schools. Through a friend, she was introduced to the Street School. What began as a simple gesture of appreciation quickly evolved when they recognized that students also needed support. When access to public schools became limited during the pandemic, the group focused their efforts on the Street School, providing meals for students and staff. In the process, Tammy discovered a mission that resonated deeply.

In 2022 she officially joined the team as the Assistant Director of the Adult Program and works with adult learners who have made the decision to earn their high school diplomas. In this role Tammy serves not only as an educator, but also as a mentor and encourager. “I help our students realize that they can do this,” she says. “They can learn, grow, and accomplish big things in their lives!”

Many of the adults she works with are balancing school alongside jobs, children, and other significant responsibilities. Tammy supports them in building structure, setting boundaries, and staying committed to their goals. Just as importantly, she helps them recognize their own potential, sometimes for the first time. The small, relationship-centered environment makes that possible, allowing staff to walk alongside each student and connect them with meaningful resources and opportunities.

For Tammy, the most inspiring part of her work is the determination she sees every day. Each student who returns to school has made a choice to pursue something better, and each one represents perseverance in the face of real challenges. “They all have something pulling them away from graduating, but they know this matters.”

“We are fortunate to have so many people and organizations who support our mission, from tutors who generously give their time to donors whose contributions keep our doors open. The Winston-Salem Street School is all about second chances, and our community makes that possible.”