Vision: We envision leading a community that is engaged in providing joyful Christmas Experiences for children and their families during the holidays in hopes that Christmas Experiences & Family Traditions will be preserved or created, and positive memories developed for children, that can ultimately positively affect their lives.
Mission: Our mission is to enlist community members such as children, teens, and adults in the execution of our goal, which is to give every child and their family a Christmas Experience at home that would otherwise be a challenge to children and their families due to hardship or crisis during the holidays.
Meet Our Team
Lakisha Covert, Founder & CEO
Born and raised in Washington, DC, Lakisha Covert was the first person in her family to attend college. Her determination to live a life of serving children started when she was a child. Being the oldest of 11 children, Lakisha’s passion for the education of children led her to decide to become an elementary teacher. Once she obtained her Bachelor’s and Master Degrees at George Washington University in DC, she immediately began a teaching career in elementary education. As a teacher, she was awarded "Teacher of the Year" in both Washington, DC and Prince George’s County. She was known for her innovation and creativity in the classroom and raising test scores of children scoring basic in reading and math.
After teaching for 11 years, she became a Resident Principal in 2009. Between 2010 and 2014, she became the principal of two Title One Schools, one in Prince George’s County Maryland, and one in Alexandria, VA. She presented at ASCD conferences and became a Certified Framework for Teaching observer through Charlotte Danielson, Inc. During her Principalship, she trained under David Colman, one of the Common Core Writers in New York City.
After serving two school communities as Principal, she joined the New Leaders, Inc. staff in June 2014 as Senior Director of Content and Curriculum specializing in Leadership Team Development and School Culture. She wrote curriculum for all New Leader programs and professionally developed Residents Principals from all program cities, then she facilitated learning for Resident Principals, Emerging Leaders, and First-Year Principals as Director of Leadership Facilitation in the Mid-Atlantic Region. Currently, she is the Deputy Chief at a non-profit organization. She also has a doctorate in Educational Leadership. Some of her achievements include receiving the Griffin Foundation Visionary Educator Award as a teacher a Center City Public Charter Schools in Washington, DC, and the Jean Phillips award for educational excellence as a Principal in Prince George’s County. She is also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated.
Lacey Robinson, Board Member, President
Lacey Robinson has more than 20 years in education as an educator, principal, and staff development specialist with a focus on literacy, equity, and school leadership. She is currently the CEO of an educational non profit and works to ensure students all over the country receive an equitable education. She is also a Keynote Speaker, Author, and Business owner. Previously, Lacey was the Chief of Program and Engagement and Senior Director of Implementation for the national Transforming Teams program at New Leaders, a nonprofit that trains aspiring and current school leaders. Lacey is certified in facilitative leadership and has served as a staff development specialist nationally and internationally, most recently working with the Medical School of Rwanda on organizational and change management.
.jpg)
Dr. Anita Walls, Board Member, Community correspondent officer
Anita Walls was named Top 40 under 40 in the state of Maryland. She is an educator of 14 years and has served children in Prince George’s County, DC & Baltimore Public School System. She is a product of Prince George’s County Schools and graduated from Hampton University where she received a BA in Psychology and an MA in Elementary Education. She received a second MS in Reading Education from Coppin State University and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Education from University of Maryland College Park. Ms. Walls is an advocate for all students and works tirelessly to ensure that students gain exponential academic growth and are productive members of society.
Nicole peltier-lewis, Board member, Vice President
Nicole Peltier-Lewis is an educator who has served in every capacity in schools. Over her 20-year long career, she has served as a K-12 teacher, school administrator, professional development facilitator, principal, and professor. She is presently a school principal and organizational leadership coach/consultant. She is pursing a doctorate in Educational Leadership. Nicole appreciates the challenges that exist in shifting organizations from "Ordinary to Awesome". As a certified coach, she is delighted to share her experience with organizations and individuals who are passionate about reaching their full potential. Nicole is also an author and has published the children’s book, I Love Saturdays!. I Love Saturdays is a charming story which helps families embrace time together and enjoy the little pleasures of life. Originally from Boston, Mass., Nicole received her B.A in Human Services Non-Profit Management and holds a Masters of Education in Education Administration and Supervision from the George Washington University. Her life’s motto is to make the lives of others better while doing the will of God along the way. She resides in Maryland, with her two sons, Isaiah and Nicholas, and her husband, Kito.
Isaiah Lewis
Junior Board Member
Isaiah Lewis has been a member of our TCE Board since 2020. He is a Junior Board Member who earned his spot on our board through his efforts to mobilize young people to serve and give. Creating partnerships at area schools has been his strength. Each year the number of students who join our North Pole Pals increase because of his efforts. His hobbies include fishing, hunting, basketball, and aquascaping.
