Morgan Gustafson
Educator Resource Bank
Specialist in Curriculum and Instruction
Graduated, Fall 2024
Biloxi, Mississippi
Morgan Frye is a firm believer in “doing the thing.” That simple phrase—first spoken by Dr. Alison Bory in a college dance class—has shaped Morgan’s approach to life, teaching, and leadership. A North Carolina native, Morgan earned her B.A. in Political Science from Davidson College in 2017 and later completed her M.Ed. at Johns Hopkins University while teaching in Washington, D.C. She joined Teach For America in 2017 and was placed in Leland, Mississippi. After several years teaching across Mississippi and D.C., Morgan returned to the Gulf Coast where she now teaches 5th Grade English Language Arts at Biloxi Upper Elementary School.
Project: The Educator Resource Bank – Tools Teachers Deserve
As a veteran teacher in multiple districts, Morgan noticed a universal struggle: teachers were expected to manage complex, compliance-driven systems—like SPED, MTSS, and ELL paperwork—without adequate support, guidance, or tools. The stress of trying to “figure it out on your own” was leading to confusion, burnout, and time taken away from students.
That gap led Morgan to create the Educator Resource Bank, a living, digital platform designed to take the guesswork out of documentation and procedures. Tailored to the specific needs of Biloxi Upper Elementary, the Resource Bank offers organized, searchable information about essential processes—including intervention documentation, special education protocols, student accommodations, and data tracking systems.
Early results have been promising. Over 70% of surveyed teachers found the tool helpful in quickly locating the information they needed. A Q&A feature via Padlet allows staff to anonymously ask questions and receive answers from veteran colleagues—ensuring the platform evolves with teacher needs and district updates.
Collaboration & Growth
Morgan collaborated closely with her school’s SPED and MTSS coordinators, as well as general education teachers, to ensure accuracy and usability. While the rollout is ongoing, her colleagues already rely on the tool to navigate their day-to-day responsibilities. The Fellowship gave Morgan the space and validation to treat this effort not just as a kind gesture—but as a meaningful social entrepreneurship project with the power to scale.
Looking Ahead
Morgan plans to expand the Resource Bank by adding guides for key platforms like DNA Illuminate, STAR universal screener, and student data notebooks. She hopes to lead professional development for new teachers this summer, using the Resource Bank to onboard staff into district systems with clarity and confidence.
Ultimately, Morgan envisions this project as a model for schools and districts across Mississippi and beyond—proving that when teachers are equipped with the right tools, they can focus on what matters most: their students.
“Even something as small as defining acronyms can clarify a misconception and reduce anxiety. When we support teachers, we support kids.”