(Science Lead Teacher)
Rayna Northcutt, who joined the Legacy Foundation of Hartford in 2016, currently serves as Legacy’s Saturday Academy’s Lead Science Teacher. An educator for the past eight years, Rayna is in her second year as Principal of Teachers’ Memorial Global Studies Magnet School for Norwich Public Schools. She has also served in other roles, including science teacher, dean, and adjunct professor, as well as a contributing writer of district science curriculum. Rayna holds a Master’s in Education, and she received a High Honor distinction in earning her Doctorate with a 4.0 grade point average , both from Central Connecticut State University.
Rayna says she initially met Legacy founder Greg Jones while accompanying a student to a Greater Hartford Think HBCU College Fair. She said during his talk with the student, he mentioned his foundation and its goal to effect positive change within the community. When Jones learned that she was a science teacher, he immediately asked if she was interested in teaching at Legacy. After querying the students about the organization and hearing their effusive praise, she was swayed.
A recipient of the June Archer 100 Women of Color Award and Google Black History Month Pay It Forward Challenge, Rayna says part of what attracted her to the Legacy Foundation was its recognition of the achievement and opportunity gaps for the area’s most vulnerable students and its commitment to closing those gaps. “Legacy actively provides students with opportunities by creating a program that champions scholarship and promotes a college-going culture. Moreover, all teachers at Legacy hold advanced degrees, teaching certifications, and serve as educators in educational institutions,” she said.
The Legacy Foundation of Hartford doesn’t just impact students’ lives; it also changes the lives of those who serve the organization, she adds. “I attribute Legacy to my growth as a leader, educator, and overall person,” said Rayna. “Legacy is more than a program, and the teachers are more than my colleagues; they have become family.”
