Alumni Spotlight: Xavier Douglas

Xavier Douglas, a social studies teacher at Lexington Traditional Magnet School, is a 2017 graduate of Lafayette High School. He now teaches eighth grade U.S. History in the middle school he once attended, and he helps coach the football team. Douglas is in his second year at LTMS, which is his first job out of college. “I enjoy serving students who look like me who have been through some of the same experiences,” he said.

Question: What is your fondest memory of your time at Lafayette?

Answer: The friendships I made and have carried with me. I was on the football team and went to the state championship twice. There were also some really, really special teachers.

Q: What person, class, or experience in high school influenced you the most?

A: My anatomy class, taught by Sophie Schwab. You could tell she truly bought into her craft and cared about her kids. Every day she showed up with a smile on her face. Having her as a teacher was amazing.

Q: Did you attend college or complete graduate studies? If so, where and in what field?

A: University of Kentucky in Secondary Education, with a master’s degree in History

Q: How did your education at Lafayette help prepare you for college and for your professional journey?

A: It was a place where learning was its focus. Lafayette felt like a business with everyone focused on the same task. They really held me accountable and made sure I was on the right track.

Q: What is a professional highlight of your career?

A: Just being back at the school (LTMS) and having the students know they can succeed, too. I’m a living example of what they can be.

Q: What advice would you give students interested in your career field?

A: It is very tangible. If you put your mind and heart toward it, it’s something you can do. Just keep every door open.

Q: What is an important life lesson to share with current students and future graduates?

A: Think before you act and then think again and think again. Be considerate of every action you take. Not only does it affect you, but it affects everyone around you.

Q: Anything else you’d like to tell us about yourself -- family, hobbies, interests, etc.?

A: I come from a single mother. She really sold that school is important. I would not be anywhere without her.