Editor’s Note: The Olivian will interview a new OA staff member each day for the next week.
Q: What is your role here at Oliver Ames?
A: I am one of the Assistant Principals, working alongside Mr. Flanagan. I will oversee grades 9 & 11, and Mr. Flanagan will oversee grades 10 & 12. Students of any grade are always welcome to connect with either of us, especially if the other AP is not available. In this role, my priorities are to support students and staff each and every day.
Q: Who got you to where you are today?
A: Without a doubt, two teachers stand out to me. My 2nd grade teacher, Ms. Whalen, and my 6th grade teacher, Ms. O’Keefe. They both made it a point to ensure I felt heard, supported, and connected. During 6th grade in particular, I had enrolled in a new school and did not know anyone there. Ms. O’Keefe made it a point to introduce me to new friends, find clubs and activities that interested me, and supported me through my entire middle school experience. Her ability to hold me to high standards while also remaining empathetic is what really helped me become the educator I am today.
Q:What is your favorite fun fact about yourself?
A: I absolutely LOVE the weather and airplanes. I love the variability of the weather and just the overall beauty it can create each day. As for planes, it’s the science behind it, and just the overall understanding of what makes them take off that absolutely amazes me!
Bonus fact: I also hold my CDL license and have driven 45-foot coach buses!
Q: If you could be any animal what animal would you be and why?
A: A bird – I would love to be able to fly above everything and see the world from a 10,000 foot view. Taking in sights that might be out of my view, or ones that I have missed. It would be really amazing to see the world around me in that way!
Q: Do you have any thoughts on the school in general that you would like to add?
A: I feel so incredibly fortunate to be a part of the OA family. Students and staff have welcomed me and made me feel as if I’ve been here for years. I am so proud to be a part of this amazing community and am excited to continue to learn about the culture, the students, and the town of Easton itself.