With over 10 years in the education field, Kai Butler holds a B.A. in English from Old Dominion University. She taught as an English teacher, but after three years, she saw the need to deepen her theory and practice for helping inner city youth in the areas of social-emotional and academic support, as well as career exploration. She obtained her Master's in School Counseling from Howard University in 2011.
She has served as a school counselor in the middle and high school sector in New York and Richmond, VA, including Henrico County Public Schools as Director of School Counseling at The Academy at Virginia Randolph and currently at Varina High School. Serving the underdog and those forgotten is her true passion and she relishes the opportunity to connect real-life practicality with her approach. She is certified in trauma-informed care and restorative practices, with which she will infuse the program.
Today, she is the Executive and Founder of Work of Art, a local nonprofit designed to empower girls 13-18 from underserved communities, focusing specifically on Black youth. The mission of the program is built on three beliefs: lead by example, inspire others, and connect the world through volunteerism and other enriching experiences. She also serves as a trainer for United Way of Greater Richmond, where she trains other organizations using The Weikart Center's Youth for Program Quality. What she enjoys most about her current positions is the ability to assist youth in reaching their unique potential and seeing the determined spark in their eyes. In her spare time, Kai enjoys dancing, hot yoga, and spending time with family, friends, and her dog Paris Rose.
Instagram: @kai_thecounselor and @workofartrva
Website: www.workofartrva.org