Leslie K. Brooks

Leslie Brooks began her ‘work’ journey at the ripe old age of 9 when she was cast as the narrator in “Paul Revere’s Ride” and got to read Longfellow’s poem. It was love at first ‘cite.’

Leslie continued her journey through high school, deciding if she wanted to write, using poetry as a way of self-expression, or act, or teach math. Getting a featured write up in NJ Music and Arts Magazine and a Best Actress Award, Leslie decided to enter the BFA theatre program at NYU and Circle in the Square, then continued at with Mason Gross School of the Arts to complete her undergraduate education.

For 20 years, she pursued acting on both coasts, appearing on the stage, in LA, in regional theatres, and off-Broadway, on television in Days of our Lives, Sex and the City, One Life to Live, Law and Order, and Falcon Crest to name a few, as well as making over 100 film appearances in movies such as Prizzi’s Honor, A Bronx Tale, Safe Men, Keeping the Faith, The Imposters, and The Pallbearer, among numerous others.

Leslie also gained plenty of experience in a plethora of side jobs, (yes, alas, it’s true) including teaching, and became a member of LAUSD, the Los Angeles teaching union. She is also a member of Actors’ Equity, and SAG-AFTRA, the acting industry unions.

In 2002, Leslie decided that she had more to offer than just acting, and it was time to grow. She went back to school, earning her MA in teaching and special education.

Leslie has taught Special Education in all subjects, grades 3-11, both resource and in-class support, and also taught Public Speaking to regular education students . She directed highly acclaimed musicals for 8 years, opening eyes and doors, kindling flames, and creating opportunities for students.

Her passion for teaching, her students, and transforming and transcending the self, led her to write this book, Education Aggravation. Leslie always has held a passion for writing. She plans to write some children books in the near future.