By Okon Ekpenyong

The culture shift at Bridge Gate Community School on the West Side of Columbus is evident in the students’ attitudes and how the staff works together to create an atmosphere of respect and learning. With the addition of a security guard, Tiara Beaty, who is more of a mentor than an enforcer, the School is creating an environment where students feel safe and comfortable while they learn.

The transformation is a testament to the dedication and commitment of the school staff and administration to make one of the Educational Empowerment Group campuses a place where students can strive and excel.

Some people refer to her as Mrs. T, while others refer to her as Mrs. Tiara. As the oldest of eight children, she graduated from Linden McKinney in 2003 in Columbus, but it wasn’t always easy. She understands at least some of the highs and lows some of these students endure, especially coming from a large family and juggling school and family obligations.

Mrs. Tiara has dedicated her life to helping kids and youth to reach their fullest potential. She has worked with many organizations and schools to provide mentorship, guidance, and support to those in need. Her experience and understanding of the daily struggles of young people have allowed her to create time and initiative to help them succeed.

Her interactions with students are heartwarming – like a child smiling after hearing not-so-great news. She finds unique ways to connect with each student, regardless of background or religion.

Once a student:

“During my high school years, I was an all-city basketball player, winner of an MVP award for three years, and played defense player all four years playing varsity. Central State University for two years, a 3.6 GPA, making the dean’s list, running track and basketball, and losing my grandfather weren’t the same”, said Mrs Tiara Beaty.

She once stated that she was offered a full scholarship to play basketball under legendary coach Pat Summits at Tennessee Volunteers but chose to attend Central State University to be closer to home.

Mentorship Opportunities:

“Eventually, I was blessed and pleased to attend the “I Know I Can” and “Upward Bound” programs to attend the leadership conference in Wisconsin.”

A heart never forgets something like that:

“I choose to go above and beyond to help others because I know what it is like to grow up not having anything. I watched my mom struggle. Christmas wasn’t an option in my household—no celebration and not many gifts.”

Grandparents influence:

“My grandparents did look out for us with gifts and love whenever they could. My life has been marked with pain, losing my father, best friend, and brother due to a motorcycle accident, and recently, my grandmother left me.”

Perseverance:

“Through all this heartache and pain, it made the person you see now kindhearted, sweet, and respectful. Helping people is my way of giving back. Assisting kids, letting them know that it’s not by themselves, and seeing them smile brings joy to my heart.”

Roads to Bridge Gate:

“I work at St Stephens Community House, YWCA, as a mentor and food driver to needy families. And this is a way of giving back to the community.”

A mentor, not a guard:

“At Bridge Gate, I feel more like a mentor than a security guard. Interactions with the kids daily bring me joy because I can give them information about life.”

Statement from students & staff:

Many students and teachers spoke positively of Mrs. T, who continues to go above and beyond what a school security guard or school resource officer would generally do.

“She is the best security personnel we have ever had at this School. She encourages me to come again whenever I visit, making me feel safe and secure in the building. She is always on top of everything in and around the premises and is the first to show up whenever staff need something. She does so much for our School, and I would like to find a way to express my gratitude for everything she has done for us”, Kristina, a 12th grader, said.

“She’s nice. She’s like my best friend, and she is so sweet and kind and always there when I need to vent”, said Aleya.

“If there is any conflict between two students, she is always there to listen to both sides and is very strong,” said Tikira.

“She is charming and helpful. Her assistance when my mother was involved in an accident by talking to me and asking if I needed anything was beneficial, and she is my favorite faculty member,” said Zion. “She’s always looking out for people. Mrs. T always kept us on track without doing too much. She’s like a second mom. And always listen when you need an ear. I love her and appreciate everything she did for me”, said Joy.

“Please do not leave us because if you do, I will be furious and leave the School. I love having you here at the School because you are funny and always there when I am not having a good day”, said Ruqiyo.

“Tiara is the best security guard ever. Each day, coming to Bridge Gate, she would ensure I was good, whether it was getting me food, snacks, beverages or even ensuring my mental state was on point. I appreciate everything that Mrs. T has done for me and Bridge Gate. She supported, encouraged, and spoke wisdom to the students, as well as the teachers”, said Mrs. Rowe.

Mrs. De Leon (teacher):

“Your work matters. Every day that you show up,

Even when it’s hard and when you don’t feel like it,

You’re still making a difference. So, even on hard days when you’d like to hang back and not show up. REMEMBER: The world needs the magic inside of you. The School needs you. I need you.

Your work matters, Your consistency matters, Your ideas matter., and Your presence matters. So, keep it up. You are needed, And your presence is essential. You are needed because your heart, your passion, your heart, your mind, your creativity, your compassion, and your empathy are endless.

So don’t ever sit on the sidelines- questioning your place because You belong here. You made an incredible impact on the lives of the students and the teachers (me included).

You are strong. You are here on purpose, for a purpose. And even on the messy. Your presence still matters. One of the things I truly admire about you is how you do everything with love.

No matter what is going on in your world, no matter what happens today, you always go around with a joyful heart, and people who know and care about you can see that from a mile away.”

Tiara Beaty’s passion for helping others is seen in her daily work, as she is always willing to listen and provide support whenever needed. Her enthusiasm for learning and teaching has been contagious, as she has constantly pushed students and staff to think outside the box and explore new ideas. Tiara Beaty has been an invaluable asset to the School, and her positive influence will continue to inspire everyone who walks into that building for years.

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