Coleman grew up in Charlotte, North Carolina. She attended The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she developed an interest in the history of schools and a passion for educational policy and justice. Coleman then worked for an advocacy organization in Washington, DC, pursuing these interests in a hands-on environment. This experience solidified her interest in education and inspired her to pursue a career in the classroom. Coleman taught 5th and 2nd grade at various public elementary schools in Washington, DC, for four years before relocating to NYC. Outside of school, Coleman enjoys spending time with her friends and family, trying new restaurants, talking about how much she loves North Carolina, and buying more books than she has time to read.