A champion for students at ASU Prep Pilgrim Rest
By Stefanie Contreras
At ASU Preparatory Academy Pilgrim Rest, teachers are the heart and soul of student success. Their dedication creates a vibrant and supportive environment, where every learner can thrive. Among them is Adrienne Henderson-Cole, a first-grade teacher and Transformational Teacher Leader whose journey reflects a deep commitment to education, community and lifelong growth.
A familiar foundation
Henderson-Cole’s connection to the ASU Prep family runs deep. She first taught at ASU Prep South Phoenix Elementary, where she loved the families and the culture of the “amazing little K–2 school on Hidalgo.” When the pandemic hit in 2020, she stepped away to focus on her boys, but her positive experiences soon drew her back—this time to ASU Prep Pilgrim Rest.
At Pilgrim Rest, she has found a unique and inspiring environment.
“I love our small school and our sense of community,” she shares. For her, the campus holds a powerful meaning, located “right in the birthplace of the civil rights movement for Arizona,” across the street from the historic Eastlake Park.
“Eastlake Park has been the focal point of African American history in Phoenix for much of its existence,” she explains, recalling its role in civil rights rallies, visits from leaders and annual celebrations. For Henderson-Cole, this rich history resonates deeply: “All of this history just makes me appreciate my history as a Black woman and also resonates with my personal mission of providing children from my community with the best education possible.”
A journey of lifelong learning
Education has always been central to Henderson-Cole’s path. She earned a bachelor’s degree from St. Mary’s Public Honors College of Maryland, a master’s from Bowie State University and a doctorate from Grand Canyon University. Her decision to pursue Early Childhood Education came from her joy in observing children discover new ideas.
“It is so amazing to see a child figure out something on their own when they are learning,” she says.
Her passion for teaching is rooted in equity and opportunity.
“I am passionate about education because I know it is the key to success for Black and brown children,” she says. “Historically, we as Black and brown people have often been given the scraps of food, housing and clothing, but the one thing that can prevent all of that from happening to our children in the future is making sure they get an amazing education.”
Her distinction as a National Board-Certified Teacher underscores her commitment.
As a National Board-Certified Teacher, I have proven that I provide the children I teach with the skills they need to be lifelong learners.”
Proud moments in the classroom
Connection remains at the heart of Henderson-Cole’s teaching philosophy. Drawing on her own positive experiences with teachers who became her biggest cheerleaders, she strives to create the same supportive relationships for her students.
Her proudest classroom moments often come from creative projects. “The projects I’m most proud of are when we make gifts for the parents at Christmas and Mother’s Day,” she shares. “The kids just love creating and I love sharing art with them.” These moments blend creativity with care, reinforcing her students’ sense of community.
She also looks back fondly on her time at South Phoenix Elementary: “Such an amazing little place that was focused on early childhood goals, making children happy and working well together as a staff. We were all in it together in our little trailer park school.” That sense of collaboration and purpose continues to guide her work today.
A creative spirit beyond the classroom
Henderson-Cole’s creativity doesn’t stop at school. “My favorite hobbies are any type of art,” she says, listing mixed media, paper crafting, photography and painting. She shares this passion with others by teaching crafting classes at her local library in Goodyear, AZ.
Her entrepreneurial spirit shines, too—she’s the CEO of her own jewelry business, which she has run for six years. “I love helping people feel beautiful,” she says, noting that her creative outlet also provides a welcome balance to her professional life.
A leader, mentor and champion for students
Adrienne Henderson-Cole embodies the passion, dedication and community spirit that define ASU Prep Pilgrim Rest. Her commitment to her students, her deep appreciation for history and her role as both teacher and mentor make her an invaluable part of the ASU Prep community.
Her story is a reminder that education is more than instruction—it’s connection, creativity and a commitment to shaping the future.
My mission is providing children from my community with the best education possible.”
Innovating K–12 education with adaptive learning and technology
Adrienne Henderson-Cole’s story reflects what we value most at ASU Prep Pilgrim Rest: strong relationships, meaningful learning, and a deep connection to our community. Her commitment to her students shows how passion can create a warm and welcoming environment where every child feels supported.
At ASU Prep Pilgrim Rest, we blend a community-focused approach with personalized support, offering students the chance to grow academically while honoring their history and culture. From engaging, creative projects to a focus on foundational skills, we’re creating a future-ready learning environment where students—and teachers like Ms. Henderson-Cole—thrive.
Our school empowers students to pursue their passions while achieving academic excellence. Join us for a tour to see how ASU Prep Pilgrim Rest can help your student grow with confidence—and a strong sense of community. Join us for a tour or schedule a call with an advisor to see how ASU Prep Pilgrim Rest can help your student grow with confidence.
