Edmond Educator Grateful for Early Lessons About Homeownership

Christmas arrived early for middle school educator Isabella M. on Dec. 19, 2024, when she celebrated purchasing her new home at Cornerstone Creek.

In her application to Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity’s (COHFH) New Home Construction program, Isabella shared that she grew up in Oklahoma City and Edmond. She graduated from the University of Central Oklahoma before becoming a science teacher and volleyball coach at Sequoyah Middle School in Edmond.

Faced with high rental costs, Isabella wanted to invest in a home of her own while working within an educator’s salary. A family friend introduced her to Habitat and encouraged her to apply.

“I’ve always known that I didn’t want to stray too far from my family, and the desire to establish a solid foundation grew,” Isabella said. “I was taught the importance of investments, and buying a house is one of the best investments you can make. Becoming a homeowner was my next dream after graduating.”

Isabella also valued the lessons she learned while completing the program’s required sweat-equity hours. She described the experience as an “aha moment” when she realized, “I can accomplish this,” especially with people supporting her and making the process enjoyable.

Those experiences culminated in the purchase of her new, energy-efficient and affordable home in far northwest Oklahoma City.

Central Oklahoma Habitat Chair/CEO Ann Felton Gilliland visits with Isabella M. during her Dec. 19, 2024, home dedication at Cornerstone Creek.

“I’ve always known that I didn’t want to stray too far from my family, and the desire to establish a solid foundation grew,” Isabella said. “I was taught the importance of investments, and buying a house is one of the best investments you can make. Becoming a homeowner was my next dream after graduating.”

Isabella also valued the lessons she learned while completing the program’s required sweat-equity hours. She described the experience as an “aha moment” when she realized, “I can accomplish this,” especially with people supporting her and making the process enjoyable.

Those experiences culminated in the purchase of her new, energy-efficient and affordable home in far northwest Oklahoma City.