Arielle Gaines is a proud alumna of Fontbonne Academy, Class of 2007. After graduating from Fontbonne, Arielle continued her education at Hampton University in Hampton, Virginia. She received her bachelor’s degree in physical education with a minor in Kinesiology. Following her undergraduate studies, she received a master’s in education from the University of Massachusetts, Boston. 

Arielle explored life outside of Boston and moved to Washington, D.C., where she became an early childhood educator at AppleTree Early Learning Public Charter School. She spent five years teaching preschool and pre-K students. After the pandemic in 2020, Arielle decided this was a great time to be with family and loved ones, so she moved back to Boston.

Arielle is a kindergarten educator at Match Community Day Charter School in Hyde Park, where she has grown in her pedagogical practice, leadership skills, and confidence in advocating for colleagues. Arielle was awarded the Teacher of the Year award during the 2023-2024 school year. The kindergarten team she led also won ‘Best Team’ out of the school the same year.

Arielle is a proud educator. Her goal every year is to advocate for and teach her students. She ensures that her students are confident, can advocate for themselves, and have a solid academic foundation.