Shawntrice McQueen, a respected former educator and current real estate professional, is using her recent feature spotlight to advocate for deeper community involvement in the lives of at-risk youth and families facing housing instability. Drawing on her 20 years of service at Torchlight Academy Charter School and her ongoing work in property management, McQueen is calling on individuals—not just institutions—to take local action.
“You don’t need a title to show up for someone,” said McQueen. “If you see a child who’s hungry or a parent under pressure, step in. Listen. Be human. That’s where real change starts.”
Her remarks follow a widely shared article detailing her career journey from cosmetologist to beloved school teacher, and now to a trusted housing advisor.
Why It Matters: Education and Housing Are Interconnected
McQueen’s call comes at a time when both the UK and the US are facing systemic issues in education and housing:
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In England, 7,900 pupils were permanently excluded from schools in the most recent academic year.
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In the U.S., over 1.2 million public school students are homeless or in unstable housing conditions.
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Children experiencing housing instability are 87% more likely to drop out of school compared to their peers.
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In both countries, access to stable housing is directly tied to school attendance, performance, and long-term success.
“I’ve washed a child’s hair before school so they wouldn’t get bullied. Bought uniforms when parents couldn’t. That’s the level of support some kids need to even sit down and learn,” McQueen explained. “Imagine if more people just paid attention.”
From Classrooms to Communities: An Ongoing Mission
Even after her school closed in 2022, McQueen didn’t stop helping families. She transitioned into real estate, using her skills in communication, conflict resolution, and care to help families find and maintain housing. In one case, she supported a single mother in securing safe, affordable housing after domestic hardship.
“A safe home can be the difference between survival and collapse,” she said. “People think they can’t help. But you don’t have to be a teacher or a landlord. You just have to be present.”
Her message echoes a growing sentiment among grassroots organisers—that while large policy changes are slow, local action can be swift and meaningful.
What You Can Do Today
Shawntrice McQueen is not launching a foundation or campaign. Instead, she’s asking people to look around—and act.
Here’s what she says anyone can do:
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Check in with a local school or shelter and ask what supplies or help they need.
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Mentor or tutor a young person in your neighbourhood, even just once a week.
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Offer a ride, a meal, or a connection to someone navigating housing stress.
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Volunteer at open houses, job fairs, or food drives—events McQueen always prioritised.
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Model calm conflict resolution, especially around children. “Peace spreads,” she says.
“People think small actions don’t matter,” said McQueen. “But when a kid feels seen, safe, and supported, that moment sticks. It becomes a reason to keep going.”
To read more, visit the website here.
About Cynthia McQueen
Shawntrice McQueen is a former Teacher of the Year at Torchlight Academy Charter School in Raleigh, North Carolina. She holds a BA from Shaw University, with certifications in elementary and special education, and is a licensed cosmetologist. After 20 years in education, she transitioned into real estate and property management, continuing her mission to serve families and uplift communities.
Contact:
info@shawntricemcqueen.com
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