Recently I visited cluster 3 and conducted an interview with Ms. O'Neill our new science teacher. Last year Ms. O'Neill was an intern and a long term substitute teacher at our school from the University of New Haven.
Lilly: How long were you a substitute before you became a new teacher here at WMS?
Ms. O'Neill: One full year.
Lilly: What do you like best about teaching science?
Ms. O'Neill: The students are funny, and Washington is a great school at which to teach.
Lilly: Additionally, what is your favorite part of teaching in general?
Ms. O'Neill: Knowing (that the) students understand what I’m teaching (them). I love seeing the light bulbs come on.
Lilly: What is your least favorite part of teaching?
Ms. O'Neill: Giving consequences.
Lilly: Where else have you taught?
Ms. O'Neill: Nowhere else; just here at Washington.
Lilly: Was science your favorite subject in school?
Ms. O'Neill: It has always been science, especially biology.
Lilly: Where did you go to college?
Ms. O'Neill: The University of Connecticut for my Bachelor's Degree and University of New Haven for my Master's Degree.
Lilly: What do you like to do outside of school?
Ms. O'Neill: I love lacrosse, and hiking. I also really like playing with puppies at All Pet's Club. Everyone knows me there.
Welcome Mrs.Dow
By Blake Kunst
Blake: What school did you teach at before coming to Washington Middle School?
Mrs. Dow: I taught at Thomas Hooker Elementary School.
Blake: Who inspired you to become a teacher?
Mrs. Dow: My reading teacher in elementary school.
Blake: Who was the most influential person you taught?
Mrs. Dow: I like to think I have a positive influence on all my students.
Blake: How does it feel being a mom and a teacher at the same time?
Mrs. Dow: Busy! Busy! Busy!
Blake: What subjects do you teach in special education?
Mrs. Dow: Reading, writing, and math.
Blake: Did you already know any of the teachers in the building before you started working here?
Mrs. Dow: Yes, I know some teachers, I remember them from when I did my student teaching.
Blake: What hobbies do you like to do when you are out of school?
Mrs. Dow: I like to take walks.
Blake: What kind of things do you like doing with your family?