Change is in the air, and with it comes an abundance of excitement as we proudly introduce three remarkable educators who have joined our schoolhouse family. The teachers pictured above will soon be joined by three more remarkable professionals. Each brings a distinctive blend of experience, passion, and dedication, enriching the educational landscape of our beloved institution. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the stories of Sara Sunderlin, Desirae Endres, and Caryn Martin, our newest classroom directors.
Sara Sunderlin: Nurturing Curiosity at the South Campus
Sara Sunderlin steps into the role of guiding our students from grades three through eight at the South Campus. Sara’s journey in education began at Westminster, where she cultivated her skills, earning a BA in Elementary Education with a minor in Early Childhood Development. Throughout her career, Sara has left an indelible mark on various educational institutions, including Hillcrest Christian Academy and Wilson Christian Academy. However, it was her involvement in homeschooling groups and teaching for Outschool and Home Away From Homeschool that truly ignited her passion for alternative education.
What sets Sara apart is her unwavering commitment to creating a positive learning environment. She believes in the power of positive reinforcement, opting for encouragement over strict discipline. Her aim is not merely to impart knowledge but to instill a deep-seated love for learning in her students. Sara’s involvement in homeschooling groups, coupled with her experience in teaching popular classes like American Girls Doll History, underscores her dedication to fostering an environment where students thrive.
Outside the classroom, Sara finds solace in the world of literature and crafting. Her love for reading knows no bounds, and she hopes to impart this passion to her students. Whether it’s knitting, sewing, or experimenting with new recipes, Sara cherishes the moments spent crafting with her daughters. As she embarks on this new chapter, Sara brings with her a wealth of experience and an unwavering commitment to nurturing young minds.
Desirae Endres: Inspiring Independence at the East Campus
Desirae Endres brings a fresh perspective to our East Campus, where she takes on the responsibility of guiding students from grades three through eight. Desirae’s journey in education began at Slippery Rock University, where she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education/English. She is also part way through her Master’s Degree to become a Reading Specialist. However, it was her time spent teaching for a virtual school and homeschooling her daughter that opened her eyes to the myriad possibilities of alternative education.
What sets Desirae apart is her passion for personalized education and her unwavering dedication to empowering students to take ownership of their learning journey. She believes in creating a positive and engaging learning environment where students feel valued and encouraged to explore their interests. Desirae’s commitment to building relationships with her students is evident in her approach to teaching. She strives to make learning fun and relevant, incorporating real-world experiences whenever possible.
Beyond the classroom, Desirae wears many hats. As the host of the Minimal-ish podcast, evening interviewing homeschool mom during her journey. Whether it’s reading fiction, trying new recipes, or taking leisurely walks with her children, Desirae approaches life with an insatiable curiosity and a deep appreciation for the world around her.
Caryn Martin: Fostering Confidence at the North Campus
Caryn Martin brings her unique perspective to the North Campus, where she takes on the role of guiding students from grades two through four. Caryn’s journey in education began at Malone University, where she earned a BS in Early Childhood and Special Education. However, it was her pursuit of an M.Ed. in Early Intervention with an Autism Specialization and becoming highly qualified in Language Arts teaching for grades K to 12 from the University of Pittsburgh that truly shaped her approach to teaching.
What sets Caryn apart is her deep appreciation for the benefits of multi-age instruction and her unwavering commitment to creating a positive and engaging learning environment. She believes in bringing learning alive through hands-on experiences and building meaningful relationships with her students. Caryn’s enthusiasm for teaching is contagious, and she approaches each day with a sense of joy and purpose.
Outside the classroom, Caryn is a sports enthusiast, with a particular passion for football and baseball. Whether she’s cheering on her favorite teams or exploring the great outdoors with her family, Caryn approaches life with a sense of adventure and a deep appreciation for the world around her.
As we embark on this new chapter with our dedicated classroom directors, we invite you to join us in welcoming Sara, Desirae, and Caryn to our schoolhouse family. Their unwavering commitment to fostering a love for learning, empowering students, and creating positive learning environments embodies the spirit of our institution.
Together, we look forward to embracing growth, fostering curiosity, and inspiring the next generation of lifelong learners.
Are you interested in joining these teachers next school year? Applications are open for both our North and East Campuses. Click here to apply today!
Would you like to know more about the application process and the schoolhouse? Click here:
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