Education:
B.A., University of Massachusetts
M.A., University of Colorado
Started at The Common School:
1986
Outside interests:
Gardening, get togethers with large extended family, long walks in the woods and on the beach especially when accompanied by dogs.
What brought you to The Common School?
I became familiar with The Common School when providing child care to children who attended the nursery program. I was struck immediately whenever on campus by the sense of personal connection and ownership of the learning experience exhibited by the students both old and young, as well as the obvious value placed on community connection within the school. When a position became available, I jumped at the opportunity to apply. My initial impressions and love of the school have been confirmed over and over, which is the reason I have been here for over 30 years!
Tell us about a favorite teaching moment at The Common School:
There are really too many to mention, but for the most part, the moments that stand out are the ones in which curriculum experiences evolve from student interest. Examples are a Circus study (culminating in a circus performance for the whole school), a study of spiders, and a mapping curriculum.
What do you like best about The Common School?
I like how well-known and valued children are as individuals, how much ownership and investment they have in their learning, the emphasis placed across all age groups in the school on social and emotional learning and well being, and the importance placed on active, joyful engagement, both indoors and out.