Our Students Now: Special Education Teacher Ebony Acheampong-Rogers

Ebony Acheampong-Rogers, a Class of 1998 Mount Vernon High School graduate, works at Hamilton School as a special education teacher. After receiving her diploma from MVHS, she decided to give back to her community and come back to teach its students. She has used the knowledge she gained going to school in Mount Vernon to help guide her students, and she is serving as a positive influence for all the children she interacts with on a daily basis.

Many of her experiences attending the District have shaped her career, and she has utilized those experiences well to be an effective teacher.

“Ms. Acheampong-Rogers has done a wonderful job as a special education teacher at Hamilton School, and it is clear that she cares deeply about the students in the community that she comes from,” said Acting Superintendent Dr. K. Veronica Smith. “I am appreciative of her efforts, and I know that our students in special education are in good hands with her as their teacher. We have a number of alumni currently teaching in the District, and much like Ms. Acheampong-Rogers, they are all extremely dedicated to the success of our scholars.”

View the Q+A with Ebony Acheampong-Rogers below!

Graduation Year: MVHS Class of 1998.

Current Position/Positions Held in District:
Currently, I serve as a Special Education Teacher at Hamilton School within The Mount Vernon City School District. Over the years, I’ve also held positions such as Teaching Assistant and Substitute Teacher.

What inspired you to come back to the Mount Vernon City School District and become a teacher?
Coming back to Mount Vernon felt like returning home. This community shaped me in so many ways, and I wanted to give back to the place that gave me so much. I’ve always believed in the potential of Mount Vernon students, and I wanted to be part of their journey, helping them achieve their goals and overcome challenges, just as my teachers helped me. The opportunity to make a difference right here, in the same halls where I once walked as a student, was incredibly inspiring.

How has MVHS/MVCSD prepared you for your career?
Mount Vernon City School District prepared me for my career by instilling a strong work ethic and resilience. The diversity of the student body exposed me to different perspectives and cultures, which has been invaluable in my professional life. The teachers and staff within the MVCSD set high expectations and encouraged critical thinking, which helped build the foundation for my teaching philosophy today. I also participated in various extracurricular activities, such as “Project Adventure" and a humanities curriculum, which taught me the importance of teamwork and leadership—skills I rely on daily in my work with students and colleagues.

Is there a teacher or mentor that you can remember from your time here at Mount Vernon that inspires you in your work today? What did you take from them and how do you transfer that to your work?
Yes, one of the teachers who had a lasting impact on me was Ms. Harris, who taught third grade at Longfellow School at the time. She had an incredible ability to connect with students on a personal level while still maintaining high academic standards. What I took from her was the importance of building relationships with students; when students know you care about them, they are more motivated to succeed. In my work today, I make it a priority to build trust and foster a supportive learning environment where students feel heard and valued.

What was your favorite part of attending the Mount Vernon City School District?
My favorite part of attending MVCSD was the sense of community. It always felt like the school was a family, with teachers, staff, and students looking out for one another. There was always a shared sense of pride in being from Mount Vernon, and that pride still carries through today. The variety of activities and clubs available also allowed me to explore my interests and supported me develop skills beyond the classroom.

What is the feeling of working in the same District you graduated from?
It’s an incredible feeling to work in the same district I graduated from—it’s surreal at times. Every day, I’m reminded of my own experiences as a student here, which makes me even more committed to helping today’s students succeed. There’s a deep sense of fulfillment knowing that I’m now part of a system that nurtures the next generation, just as it once nurtured me. It’s also a humbling experience, as I now collaborate with some of the same people who were once my teachers and mentors.

What would you say to students who want to pursue education in the future? What do you wish someone had told you when you were in school that could help someone on their journey to becoming an educator?
To any student considering a career in education, I would say: it’s one of the most rewarding paths you can take. You’ll have the chance to make a real impact on lives every day. However, be prepared for challenges—it’s not an easy job, but it’s worth it. I wish someone had told me how important patience and flexibility are in this field. It’s not just about teaching content; it’s about understanding your students and meeting them where they are. Building relationships is just as important as delivering lessons.

What do you know now that you wish you knew during your time in school?
I wish I had known how crucial perseverance is. In school, it’s easy to get discouraged by setbacks, but I’ve learned that challenges are part of the journey. Success doesn’t happen overnight, and every obstacle is an opportunity to grow. I also wish I had realized how much of an impact my teachers were making behind the scenes. Now that I’m on the other side, I understand the dedication and effort it takes to help students succeed.

What advice would you give current MVCSD students today to help them on their academic and/or career journey?
My advice to current MVCSD students would be to never give up on themselves, even when things get tough. Take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way, whether it’s academic, extracurricular, or personal. Surround yourself with people who support and believe in you, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Most importantly, remember that your journey is your own—don’t compare yourself to others, and keep pushing forward toward your goals, even when obstacles seem to be in your way.