Meet the Founder: A Journey of Resilience, Learning, and Holistic Education!
Introduction: Welcome to The Ripple Athletic and Academic Education Center (RAAC). My name is Thia R. Fields, and I am the founder of RAAC. This blog post is a glimpse into my personal journey, the experiences that shaped me, and the vision behind RAAC. I hope my story inspires you and provides insight into the mission and values that drive our holistic education programs. As a leading holistic education center in DFW, we are committed to fostering personal growth and community support.
From Memphis to Hawthorne: Early Life and Influences I was born in Memphis, TN, but grew up in Hawthorne, CA. From a very early age, I questioned so much. One of my earliest memories is of my uncle coming into our house, pushing me aside, and going into our refrigerator without showing any respect. I remember confronting him, asking, "Who do you think you are?" My parents were shocked, I believe, this where my loudness began. This is the start of feeling like I was in a box—a child box, a woman or a girl's box, a black box. Something other than the freeness I felt in my heart. Yet, I was loved. I know now as an adult I was not alone.
Growing up in an abusive home, I always questioned everything. I found God at an early age and felt protected, even in the darkest times. Despite being labeled gifted, I graduated with a 2.1 GPA because I couldn't focus in school. I felt totally isolated and disconnected, except in my writing and stories. As a young child, I wanted to be a writer and a movie director or screenwriter. I never dreamed I would end up in medical school for two years, attempting to be a neuropsychiatrist. Although I did not finish, I continued to strive and earned three completed degrees, I feel in love with the idea of learning.
Overcoming Adversity: A Journey of Resilience I grew up in a physically and sexually violent home, and as a child, I believed that violence was strictly the man's fault, for his lack of control and lack of respect. So there began the beginning of me needing to be isolated from men. I learned I did not want someone to control my life, and therefore my mind rationalized I did not want a man. I was not gay; I knew early on that I was not attracted to females, but the role a man would play in my life would be very limiting, to say the least. I wanted to have seven children with no husband. I started to rationalize not what I wanted but what I didn't want. I became all things not—I was not a pretty girl, I was not a submissive girl, I was not a dainty girl. I was not a girl who would take anything from anyone; I wouldn't let you tell me what to do. I was my own "woman."The power in that is how powerless I felt, how unguided I felt.
At 19, I met a man and fell head over heels. Up to that point, he and I were both in the mode of what we were not going to be, who we were not. We ran from our upbringing and, like many young people, set out to blaze a new trail. We both went to college, finished our first degrees, and went on to professional school—me to medical school and him to law school. That's where the real gap began. We didn't know how to make that work. With all my thoughts, experiences, pain, and hurt, I couldn't rationalize what I needed to fill the gaps in my life. I had no experience in where I was trying to go. I needed more guidance, more help. I would find that statement true in all of my endeavors over the next 20 years.
Academic Pursuits and Career Path Despite the challenges, I pursued my academic goals with determination. I earned a BS in Psychology from the University of Memphis in 2005, followed by a BS in Biology in 2009. My passion for education led me to earn an MA in Education Leadership from the University of Tyler in 2017.
Key Experiences and Lessons Learned After my first year of college, I was involved in a car accident that shattered my hip. The long rehabilitation process tested my resilience, but I returned to school and completed my psychology degree. This experience taught me the value of perseverance and the importance of learning to study effectively. My career path took me through various roles that deepened my understanding of holistic development. As a research technician, I studied how genes influence behavior and anxiety, aiming to find new therapeutic targets for anxiety disorders. This role taught me the importance of organization, time management, and the delicate nature of scientific processes.
My work as a counselor at a behavioral center for distressed girls was profoundly impactful. I helped young girls navigate their challenges, learning about their medications and shadowing the psychiatrist. This experience highlighted the importance of providing a safe space for emotional release and the role of medicinal treatments in mental health. Volunteering at a hospital further solidified my desire to become a doctor. I spent time in trauma rooms, witnessing procedures and supporting patients. These experiences allowed me to combine my compassion and knowledge to make a tangible difference in people's lives.
Professional Experience and Leadership Roles
CEO, The Ripple Athletic and Academic Education Center, Forney, TX (March 2024-present)
Built and created a retreat and academic center for students.
Designed and created the training and academic program.
Hired and trained staff to create a unique training and learning environment to allow students to feel God's abundance.
Owner Creative Director/CEO, WISL Studios LLC, Dallas, TX (October 2017-2025)
Developed and executed creative photography concepts tailored to each client's vision.
Managed all aspects of the studio, including scheduling, client consultations, and photo sessions.
Edited and retouched images to ensure the highest quality and satisfaction for clients.
Built and maintained strong relationships with clients to foster a welcoming and empowering environment.
Promoted the studio through social media and community engagement to attract new clients.
Science Department Chair, Bishop Lynch High School, Dallas, TX (July 2021-present)
Served as a Campus leader and educator in all science courses.
Planned, prepared, and delivered instructional activities that facilitated active learning experiences.
Assistant Principal, Inspired Vision Academy, Dallas, TX (December 2018-May 2021)
Served as an Assistant Principal for Intermediate and High School Campus responsibilities included Master Schedule creator, Talent management, PD planner, Instructional Coach, Hiring team, Teacher Development, PLC Lead, Lesson Plan evaluator, T-Tess evaluator, Data Specialist, Discipline AP, Behavior Support, ARD Administrator, Facilities Manager, Safety Coordinator, Summer School Principal, Associate Principal.
Implemented systems, policies, and procedures to help cultivate, motivate, and change a school’s culture to improve test scores and ratings.
Testing coordinator and ESL and Special Ed coordinator.
Instructional Coach/Trainer, Richardson ISD, Richardson, TX (August 2015-December 2018)
Served as an Instructional Coach and District Trainer, New teacher Lead Mentor, Mentor trainer, Cohort Creator, PLC Lead, Data Specialist, Classroom Management Support, PBIS lead, Campus Trainer, Professional Developer, and District Trainer.
Developed curriculum for Cultural Competence team, led the cultural competence team to train all 52 schools and district leadership and helped create a leadership position as director of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.
Created a mentorship for at-risk African American females and mentored over 100 students within three years. The result increased attendance, academics, and test scores.
Directly supported and managed over 200 teachers on campus, with all curriculum, and prepared them for goal conversations and T-Tess evaluations. Lead Book studies each year.
Science Educator (August 2006-present)
Served as an on-level and pre-AP Chemistry; District presenter, 99% of EOC, 75% at Meets. Differentiated instruction, increased technology, and increased the number of students majoring and graduating with science degrees.
Increased student achievement through individual and group instruction.
Planned, prepared, and delivered instructional activities that facilitated active learning experiences.
The Birth of The Ripple Learning Method (RELM) Each stage of my journey—from my early questioning of societal norms, through my academic and professional experiences, to my roles in education—has shaped my understanding of holistic development. The Ripple Learning Method (RELM) is the culmination of my life's work. It integrates academic, athletic, and spiritual growth to foster holistic development. This method has been particularly effective for individuals who have not found success in traditional educational settings. By creating an environment that prioritizes confidence and personal growth, RELM helps people overcome their fears and achieve their full potential.
Vision and Mission of The Ripple Athletic and Academic Education Center The mission of RAAC is to empower individuals to discover and embrace their unique purpose. Guided by our faith in God and a commitment to holistic growth, we nurture inner peace and self-discovery by integrating mind, body, and soul. Through our retreats, participants cultivate their athletic gifts, enhance their wellness, and grow spiritually. Together, we create a supportive, inclusive, and inspiring community where everyone can reach their full potential and create positive ripples around the world.
Personal Reflections and Gratitude You see, I am an African American female in the United States of America, and my husband an African American male. Our historical time in this country is over 400 years, but our advancement is not representative. Many will tell you it's because we are lazy or we are lacking, but I believe if you look into the lives of many households, you will find that, like me, systematically we need more for our families. This need is why I am here!
We need different approaches, and my favorite quote by Mahatma Gandhi is, "Be the change you want to see in the world." I am no stranger to hard work, speaking my mind, or dedicating myself to education and tasks worth completing. Today, I want to honor the gifts, moments, and people God has blessed me to encounter. Every experience, every yes, every no, and every tear has led me to this moment to create and share with the world. The RAAC, an athletic and academic education center in the DFW area, focuses on holistic education to empower everyone.
Join Us on This Journey I invite you to join us on this journey of holistic development and personal growth. At The Ripple Athletic and Academic Education Center, we are committed to creating a supportive and inclusive community where everyone can reach their full potential. Learn more about our programs, register for upcoming retreats, or contact us for more information. Together, we can create positive ripples in the world.
Conclusion My journey has been one of resilience, learning, and holistic development. From questioning societal norms as a child to creating The Ripple Learning Method (RELM), my experiences have shaped the vision and mission of RAAC. I am proud to share this journey with you and hope it inspires you to embrace holistic education and personal growth. Remember, true learning encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. By embracing this holistic approach, we can all achieve our full potential and create positive ripples in the world.
Thank you for taking the time to read my story. I look forward to connecting with you and supporting your journey towards holistic development.
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