Webb Magazine

I graduated from Middle Tennessee State University with a BFA with a focus in printmaking, ceramics, and sculpture.

My five years of teaching have been at Webb.

When I first came to Webb I taught 6th-12th, but for the last two years my program has expanded at such a rate that now I only teach high school. My other roles include serving as a Chambliss dorm parent for three years, two as dorm head. For the last two years I have had the pleasure to serve Mrs. Pamela Seals on the Honor Society Committee, and in August I will begin a co-chair position for the Fine Arts Department alongside Mrs. Janet Linton.

I became a teacher because I enjoyed the thought of introducing a subject to others with the possibility of them falling in love with it the same way I have. To take a student from zero knowledge of the process to being able to coach others on their journey is really fulfilling. I also had some very influential teachers growing up and wanted to help students the way they helped me.

Among aspects that attracted me to Webb was the Honor Code. I grew up with friends attending Webb, and it was always amazing to me that you could leave your things wherever you wanted without threat of theft. I think maybe the larger part of that feature is the sense of community. If you exert even an ounce of effort, it is very easy to know everyone’s name. Two ounces of effort and you will have friends for life from all around the world.

It is fulfilling watching some of my students go from “not artistic” to using every bit of their free time to be in the ceramics studio making beautiful work…, having a student decide to major in ceramics and art education because of their experience in my studio and having some of our Bahamian and Jamaican students tell me the oxtail stew I made was legit!

I could go on and on about the importance of relationships. I tell people regularly that the largest part of my job is building relationships.

As a studio instructor, my students know that if I ask a question about them, I’m sincerely curious. This allows me to find connections with everyone quickly and builds a solid bond, resulting in the knowledge I’m trying to impart to them being taken seriously. When that’s taken seriously, they can apply it and begin on their path to growth. That growth leads to a confidence boost which leads to happiness. Happiness leads to heavy production and copious amounts of handmade ceramic gifts!

Outside of the classroom I have often found myself in the role of a mentor. It’s nice to be able to provide wisdom and perspective to these young men and women when they need someone to listen to them. So often I feel like the world moves so quickly that our voices can get lost, so if I can assure our students that at least I can hear them, it’s validating for both of us.

Providing a safe space for everyone that is constantly pumping out positive vibes usually keeps my room buzzing with activity - even in my planning periods! All my students and advisees also know my room is the spot with the best snacks.

I graduated from Middle Tennessee State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish Language Studies, Bachelor of Science Speech-Language Pathology & Audiology, and Master of Arts in Teaching Spanish.

I have three years in secondary education, a year and a half as a graduate teaching assistant and am in my second year at Webb.

I teach 8th-12th grades in Spanish I, Spanish III standard, and Spanish IV Standard and serve a Rand Hall dorm parent.

I decided to become a teacher because Speaking Spanish and learning about other cultures has always been my passion. I originally studied to work as a bilingual speech therapist. After completing clinicals at MTSU, I realized that the ability to rehabilitate language and help people communicate is a unique and special process. Access for language rehabilitation is limited in many areas. I enjoyed working with clients to help them improve and restore their speech and communication. A larger issue I found was a lack of access for those who speak other languages. World language education in America can be very uneven in many areas, especially for those with a lack of resources. I felt impassioned to be part of a solution to teach others to learn another language and carry it into their job fields.

Being a product of the local Rutherford County School System, I've always known of Webb – a prestigious school of high-achieving students with a global community. Its mission statement and core values initially tempted me to apply. What sold me to stay was the incredible community. A community woven with many scholastic goals, dedicated members, and moral pillars that create a unique team experience where students and teachers and staff alike sharpen one another. 

Webb students are, across the board, motivated and eager to try. Webb's learning environment encourages students to develop independence and accountability for themselves at a younger age than most would experience in a typical public education setting. These factors have greatly impacted my students' engagement in class. Working with students who are excited to learn and hungry for knowledge does wonders for the classroom environment. 

My students know that our classroom culture is built on respect, communication, and a growth mindset. From the very first day, I tell my students What matters to me is that they know how to use the skills that they are using for each task. A communicative- based and conversation-based class can be challenging for students. 

I work to draw them out of their comfort zones by establishing a strong classroom environment. I measure my success as an educator in what my students take from my class. I find it crucial to educate my students with moral integrity along with our Spanish lessons.

Additionally, my students are aware that I care for them in how I invest time into their educational experience. I make an effort to attend at least one game, play, art show, concert, etc. for my advisees and any student who asks me to attend something. Your students know who shows up for them at the end of the day. Most will not draw notice to it, however their gratitude is evident in how they interact with you moving forward. Seeing my students perform in activities that they enjoy allows me to understand them better as a person rather than as just a student in a Spanish class.

Being a dorm parent has allowed me to support my students and the greater boarding community. The core of the Webb Difference lies in how each member of this community has the power to show up for one another, make the most of it. If you choose to do so and give just a portion of your time to make an effort for the students . . . well, you will be rewarded ten-fold by what you see your students become. I count my blessings for the rigor and structure of The Webb School.

I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas, and received a Master’s in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies with a K-12 principal certification from The University of Texas at Arlington.

I have been in education for 20 years -- first grade for 14 years, fourth grade for three years, and was an instructional coach for a year before coming to Webb. This is my second year at Webb. I teach the 6th grade Focus course, was the middle school study center coordinator my first year, and in 2023-2024 served as the Learning Services assistant director, which allows me to work closely with teachers on classroom instruction.

At Webb, along with teaching and working with teachers, I am the Summer Programs Coordinator, middle school volleyball coach, upper school varsity tennis coach, and a Haynes Hall dorm parent.

Since I was young, I have always loved everything about school. I know one of the biggest reasons I loved school was because of the many amazing teachers I had throughout my school career. They paved the path toward my choosing to become a teacher. I want to help students realize their potential, push them to succeed and do things they didn’t know they could ever do, and help create their future. I always want to create a classroom in which my students know I care about them, and they know I am in their corner championing for their success.

The Webb School offers students an opportunity to surround themselves with people from around the world - which is unlike any school where I have taught. It was obvious from the first time we stepped onto the campus that the teachers and all stakeholders truly care about the success of every student. I knew as a teacher this would be a place where I could learn and grow in my knowledge and experience and that my children would also learn and grow and be challenged to be their very best. In every opportunity, you make it what it is, and I have loved everything I have been a part of so far at Webb. The mission, values, enduring understandings, and long history of The Webb School are all things that set Webb apart. I love seeing the values and mission lived out daily by the students.

I can honestly say that Webb has given me a chance to do a few things that I haven’t done before - coach a couple of sports, be a dorm parent, and live in the school community in which I teach. I get to become more than a teacher. It is incredible to watch the students transform into young adults who are ready for the next steps in life.

I graduated from Boston University with a Bachelor of Arts/Biology with a concentration in Marine Science, and Tennessee State University for my Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction.

I just completed my 27th year teaching -- four in a private school, 10 in Metro Nashville Public Schools and now 13 at Webb.

I typically teach 9th grade and 11/12th graders. I teach Biology, AP Biology and AP Environmental science, but I have taught 7th grade life science, Physics to freshmen and Anatomy & Physiology. I am the Science Department chair and National Honor Society and Alla Webb Scholar Sponsor.

I chose to become a teacher because I have always been the person to help tutor my friends. I was the study buddy in college, etc.

My first job out of college was teaching Marine Science at Newfound Harbor Marine Institute on Big Pine Key, Fla. While there, I fell in love with interacting with teenagers and helping them to learn. So after I left that job, I started working toward a teaching career. I was a Camp Director during that season, too, but in the end I really just loved working with teenagers and loved sharing my knowledge of biology. 

I had spent 10 years in public school and was looking for a place that allowed me to really invest in the students and their education. I loved the smaller class sizes at Webb and the emphasis on teaching the whole child. I also love the level of commitment from families and students to the education of their children.

I have truly been able to develop lasting relationships with my students. I get to see their growth as a scholar but also as a human being. I get to invest in them inside and outside the classroom. It really is a community here. Not only do I get to invest in the students, but I get to work with true colleagues and we grow together into better educators.

Working at Webb allows me to be part of the whole child. I get to know their families, their siblings, even their pets. I know where they are going to college and what they are passionate about. I get to be like a pseudo parent to them and this is very fulfilling to me. I don't just teach them from 8-3 p.m. and leave. I have deep relationships with my advisees and see them as my special children to care for like they were my own. Many of my students are far from home and just need that extra ear or the occasional motherly hug. I get to do that at Webb. When I was in public schools, we were trained to keep distance between ourselves and the students. Here, we are encouraged to be the character of home and to establish healthy adult/child relationships to help children find who they are meant to be. It is an absolute privilege to partner with families to help raise their children. This partnership is very fulfilling for me. 

Working with Webb colleagues to truly educate the whole child is a blessing. Our students not only learn how to read, write and do math, they learn how to present material in large groups. They learn how to be self-advocates when needed. They find out how to work with adults and peers in a professional way. Their communication skills are top notch by the time they leave us. They learn the way to succeed in academically challenging courses and to find joy in those successes. I truly feel we are raising well educated citizens who know how to overcome challenging situations. While things here are not always easy, they are enriching. I love the Webb ladies and gentlemen we are turning out.

I graduated from Wilkes University with a BA in English and University of Binghamton: MAT in English.

I’ve taught 20 years full time in college/secondary schools; and three part-time in various settings (college courses, zoo, museum). I’ve just finished my fifth year at Webb, where I have taught English IV and AP Literature for the last four years and middle school prior to that. I've taught just about every upper school grade-level at some point.

My other roles include serving as English Department chair, senior class co-advisor and Model U.N./Youth in Government Club sponsor.

There's something about the rhythms of the academic year that has always appealed to me:  the fresh excitement of the first few months of the fall term, the anticipation for the holidays, the patient waiting in the early winter months, the dawning excitement once again of another year drawing to a close. As a student, I loved the ever-changing feel of each day of the school year, and I think I wanted to share that experience with others. Plus, education had a profound impact on my life.  I was the first person in my family to have the opportunity to go to college and it was a powerfully transformative experience. I knew that I wanted to help others along that path.

I applied for a position at Webb because I loved the idea of being part of such a tight-knit community and of being part of such a long and storied history. Plus, there was its quirkiness. I found a story online about the school mascot and thought, that's a place I can feel at home!

The most fulfilling aspects while teaching at Webb include the opportunity to attend Senior Survival, for sure. A week in the woods with the group of students I've just spent the entire year teaching? Where else is that possible? I can't think of a better way to end each year. In general, the opportunity to get to know just about every student at every grade level, to watch them grow up as they move across this big, beautiful campus is also fulfilling. 

Earlier this year, a few of my phenomenal students lobbied me to sponsor a Youth in Government Club. I certainly had no knowledge of what that might require and, frankly, I wasn't much interested in the topic, but they were so passionate that I was reluctant to say no. I'm really glad I didn't. My gosh, to watch the work they all put into making it happen:  planning our trip, researching and writing bills, debating and presenting. It was remarkable, as was the time we got to spend together working in the Tennessee capitol building for four days (at a conference). When we returned home, a parent reached out to say that her daughter was thinking about an entirely different career path as a result of the experience and I thought, oh yes, this is why we do this.  It really does make a difference.

I graduated from David Lipscomb University with a BA in Education and a M.Ed., and from Tennessee State University as a Licensed Professional Counselor.

I’ve been teaching 21 years, six years at Webb. I teach 6-12 grades and all levels (PassPort, Spanish 1, 2, IV Honors and AP Spanish), of Spanish; except level 3. In addition to instructing five sections in the World Languages Department, I lead the Webb World Wide Club and assist with weekend duties four times throughout the year.

Initially, my choice to pursue a career in education was inspired by Mrs. Howell, my 7th grade English Language Learner (ELL) teacher. However, my decision to teach evolved from being a necessity to a deeply held conviction. Initially, teaching wasn't even on my radar; it wasn't until I engaged in introspection and consulted with close friends and family that I realized my aptitude for working with children.

Several factors drive my commitment to teaching. Firstly, it offers me the flexibility to pursue other interests and prioritize my role as a parent. Additionally, the breaks, including summers and holidays, provide much-needed rejuvenation. Beyond personal benefits, teaching offers a profound opportunity to impact young minds. As educators, we wield significant influence, shaping students into resilient, confident, empathetic, and intelligent individuals. Facilitating language acquisition, particularly for those eager to learn my native language, is another fulfilling aspect of my role.

My teaching philosophy centers on nurturing students to become exemplary members of society. I firmly believe in the transformative power of education and the responsibility we bear in shaping future generations. In today's world, characterized by rampant individualism, I am motivated by the belief that genuine giving can foster a more compassionate and equitable society.

I was attracted to Webb because of the Mission Statement and The Enduring Understandings. The mission of The Webb School resonates with me because of its shared beliefs. Striving to act with the best intentions, being honest, ethical, and true to my beliefs. The outcome will be a fulfilling life lived with integrity. Additionally, I am drawn to the school's commitment to honoring students who excel in intellectual, ethical, artistic, and athletic pursuits, as well as its promotion of emerging voices.

In teaching at Webb, the most fulfilling aspects stem from my philosophy rooted in faith and morality. Firstly, instilling strong moral values in my students, reflecting the person I aspire my children to become. Secondly, fostering a passion for learning so compelling that it commands attention, while deeply understanding the pivotal role schools play in children's lives. Lastly, embodying trustworthiness and respect in all interactions, both as an educator and a parent, striving to live by example, always expecting the best from others and embracing diversity and continuous learning as essential values.

In our classroom, fostering strong teacher-student relationships is at the heart of our educational journey. My commitment to embodying Catholic Christian beliefs and values creates a nurturing environment where my students can feel embraced and empowered to flourish both academically and personally. My dedication to teaching is fueled by a passion that stems from my own experience of learning English as a second language, enabling me to deeply empathize with the challenges my students may face and tailor my teaching methods to suit their needs effectively. Recognizing the unique strengths and areas for growth in each student, I implement differentiated instruction to ensure that every individual feels valued and capable of success within our classroom community. By embracing this personalized approach, I aim to create an inclusive space where all students can thrive. 

I'm attracted to Webb for its strong academic program, which offers a diverse range of subjects and emphasizes intellectual growth. I appreciate the school's commitment to supporting professional development, fostering collaboration among faculty, and creating an environment where individuals are not judged but encouraged to thrive, the flexibility in teaching approaches and the emphasis on outdoor education. Additionally, the comprehensive student support system and opportunities for college counseling demonstrate Webb's dedication to nurturing students both academically and personally.

I have a Bachelors in Education from Arizona State University and a Masters in Educational Leadership From Concordia University in Portland, Ore. I’ve taught for 16 years -- two at Webb. I teach World II (sophomore) and 1 section each World I and U.S History. My other roles are girls varsity lacrosse coach and Haynes Hall dorm parent.

Among reasons I chose to become a teacher was to help young people prepare themselves for the real world. I wanted to give back to my community. I thought it would be fun and different because every day would bring new challenges. 

I applied to Webb because I love the school mission and vision, the signature programs, and the emphasis on the 3 A's (Academics Arts, Athletics). I love the international/boarding program and getting to be enriched in different cultures from around the world for a world-view mindset.

Some of the most fulfilling aspects at Webb include the more one-on-one I get with each student -- getting to know them, what they think and feel. As a residential staff member it allows me to be in contact with other students I may not normally get a chance to meet and get to know. Cultural diversity has always been a big part of my educational career, and Webb really meets that standard and goes above and beyond to create a campus culture that unites the different world cultures of students at Webb.  

Webb is a school that promotes a positive experience for not only the students but the staff as well. It is a sense of community that we are all entrusted with and expected to share with one another. You can see the Webb difference in action and a sense of pride students have as you enter a room, walk the halls, and stroll the campus. It really shows when you attend your students’ events, and the students notice when you do. It builds strong relationships that transfer into the classroom and the effort students are willing to make. Webb does a great job in fostering these relationships with many opportunities. As a residential staff member, I get to continue these relationships with students that I might not get a chance to know as well. From advisory to clubs, to sports and on-campus events, we as teachers are able to build strong teacher-student relationships that help promote strong community, which is so inspiring and important in this day and age.