Get to Know Shannon

What educational philosophies inspire you?

I definitely find myself aligning strongly with John Dewey and progressivism in education as well as Theodore Brameld’s reconstructionist theory of education. Brameld was influenced by Dewey, so the two really align. Education to me must be student-centered and that doesn’t mean that the teacher is simply considering the student, but instead is truly putting the student’s wants and needs in the center. I also feel that education is supremely important in creating social change in our world.

What is your motto?

Not quite a motto, but my favorite quote and something that allows me to state my teaching philosophy in one sentence is from the musical Hamilton, “What is a legacy? It’s planting seeds in a garden that I never get to see.” Teaching is so fulfilling in that way. I love to hear from my students as they grow up and become adults and I get to see glimpses of the garden!

Which living person do you most admire?

I have to say that recently, I cannot help but follow and admire Vice President Kamala Harris. As a Black woman in leadership, it is wonderful to have such a powerful example to look to. It also doesn’t hurt that my mother’s maiden name is Harris, so I feel some sort of kinship!

Which historical figure do you most identify with?

As much as I love history, this is a really difficult question to answer. I think it’s partly because it’s hard to think of someone in history who is similar to me. I think why I love reading about historical figures is because I get to gain insight and perspective into people who aren’t like me. It widens my perspective.

Tell us about your love of theater.

For me, theater and singing are both great ways for me to express myself. I’m pretty introverted by nature. I was in third grade when I discovered that being on stage was also a safe and comfortable place for me. Some of the thinking and reflection that causes me to quiet as an introvert have to be set aside when I’m performing. That’s incredibly freeing.

What’s your favorite dessert?

I love the combination of lemon and raspberry! So if there’s a lemon and raspberry cake, cupcake, cheesecake – you name it! – on offer, I’ll eat it. I also love the combination of peanut and chocolate so the same applies for that!

Which is your favorite language, or medium?

Gosh! It’s so hard to pick just one language! That’s why I love the Reggio Emilia approach that allows for students to speak in all of their languages. I definitely love storytelling and I’m fascinated by the combination of technology and storytelling. I’m a big fan of documentaries, and I’ve been interested lately in vlogging and podcasting. I keep thinking about topics that I might create a podcast about one day! 

When you’re not at school, where do you like to spend your time?

When I’m not at school, I’m probably at home! But when I think about the summer and not being in school, you’ll see me planning a vacation that involves the water. I grew up close to the beaches in Delaware, so for me, summer is synonymous with water. I also really enjoy trying new restaurants, going to the movies, and seeing a show in New York (all pre-pandemic, of course!)

For what in your life do you feel most grateful?

I’m very much into researching my family tree. On my mother’s side of the family, my grandmother was not able to get an education beyond middle school. On my father’s side of the family, early high school. My mother was able to earn her MBA and I’ve earned a master’s degree. I’m so grateful for the opportunities that education has afforded me in my life, and I’m grateful for the legacy, influence, and impact of my family members who came before me.