Hannah graduated from St. John's in 2008 as part of our second Lower School graduating class. She is also the daughter of Norma Richardson, a beloved former SJPDS teacher and staff member who recently relocated out of state.
Hannah is currently a Reading Teacher and Club Supervisor/Coach at The Jemicy School. She graduated from Roanoke College in 2019 with a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, Cum Laude, and Elementary teaching licensure in Virginia. Hannah later received her Maryland Teaching certification. While in college, she was part of the service fraternity Alpha Phi Omega, Roanoke College Choir, Educational Honors Society Kappa Delta Pi, and had a job on campus as a subject tutor. Hannah enjoys spending time with friends and family, and over quarantine, she picked up cooking as a hobby. Below is our interview with Hannah.
What do you miss the most about St. John’s?
I miss the community of St. John's. Not that I do not have a wonderful community where I am now, because I do. But, I grew up in the St. John's community. I was baptized there, attended Early Childhood, and then Lower School, and was part of the Church youth group. I was later employed by St. John's in high school on the aftercare team for the Early Childhood summer camp, and then as a substitute teacher in college. The campus literally saw me grow up for twenty-two years. I have not been back in the past two years due to COVID, but hopefully, I can return to campus soon and say hello to some familiar faces.
What is one of your favorite memories from St. John’s? What was your favorite class? Favorite teacher?
I had SO many amazing teachers at St. John's. I think my favorite teacher would have to be Mrs. Cramer. I wrote about her in a paper for college, about how she was one of my inspirations to become a teacher. I also had so many fond memories at St. John's, but I think playing Peter Pan in the second-grade play, Peter Pan, was one of my favorites.
What is the most important thing you learned while you were at St. John’s?
The most important thing I learned while I was at St. John's was kindness and compassion. Learning to be kind and empathic towards all has served me well in my life. Kindness and compassion have helped me to visualize what it is like to be in other's shoes. Through this, I have learned patience and understanding. I did not realize this until the end of high school, going into college, but the wonderful teachers at St. John's influenced my career path. I knew I wanted to work with children and spread love and light, like my St. John's teachers had for me.
Also, at St. John's, I felt supported and loved. I was encouraged to think outside the box and be open-minded in my thoughts, and there were always happy faces and joy to be had on campus, which made each day a positive experience.
What does the future look like for you?
I will be starting an online Master's program at McDaniel College in October. I will be on track to receive an M.S. in Teaching and Learning (previously curriculum and instruction) with the Administration I Certification. Additionally, I hope to keep teaching and working with children. It has become a true passion of mine.
It has been fabulous reconnecting with Hannah, and we are glad she is doing so well. On behalf of our St. John's family, we wish her continued success in life and as she begins her Master's program! Go Bears!
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