Goode Shapes Lasting Impact in Early Childhood Education

Keunna Goode, a Huntsville City Schools teacher and first-generation college graduate from Gurley, Alabama, will earn a Master of Education in early childhood education during Alabama A&M University’s Spring 2026 Commencement Ceremonies on May 8 in the Event Center. The graduate ceremony begins at 10 a.m., followed by the undergraduate ceremony at 3 p.m.

Goode, now in her fourth year as an educator, teaches kindergarten at Morris Elementary School. She began her teaching career in July 2022, spending three years in second grade before transitioning to kindergarten this academic year. She previously earned a bachelor’s degree in educational studies from Athens State University in 2019.

While working full time, Goode pursued her graduate degree at Alabama A&M, where she was also a member of The Society for Collegiate Leadership and Achievement. She said her decision to continue her education was rooted in a calling to make a lasting difference.

“I chose my graduate program because I love making a difference in children’s lives,” said Goode. “I’m not in it for the paycheck; I’m driven by the desire to leave an everlasting impression on a child’s educational journey. I chose AAMU because of its deep-rooted commitment to ‘Service is Sovereignty.’ I wanted a program that values community, heritage and the high standards of a legendary school of education. AAMU doesn’t just teach pedagogy; it prepares educators to be pillars of the community.”

Goode credits her graduate experience for shaping both her professional and personal growth.

“My time on The Hill has been amazing,” she said. “The education department made sure I had everything I needed to be successful in my career.”

She said the lessons she gained at Alabama A&M University, particularly resilience and resourcefulness, have strengthened her work in the classroom and will continue to guide her future goals. Goode plans to remain on The Hill to pursue a doctoral degree in curriculum and instruction, with a concentration in elementary and early childhood education. Her long-term career goal is to become a professor of early childhood education at Alabama A&M to prepare the next generation of teachers.

For prospective students, Goode said the University offers more than academic preparation.

“Coming to Alabama A&M is an investment in your character as much as your career,” she said. “If you are driven by making a real impact, whether in a classroom, a lab or a boardroom, this University will give you the foundation to leave a legacy. You’ll leave here with more than a diploma; you’ll leave with a mission.”

As she prepares to graduate, Goode expressed gratitude to those who supported her journey, including her family and faculty mentors.

“The best part is the belonging,” she said. “I am now part of a 150-year legacy that believes my success is the community’s success.”