EE: Why did you become a teacher?

JH: I became a teacher because I wanted to make a positive impact on as many peoples’ lives as I could. I figured being a teacher would be a great way to make that happen.

EE: Why did you choose the subject you teach?

JH: “I’m a word nerd, through and through. I’ve always loved reading and writing. Language and its impact/influence is fascinating to me. I like the challenge of helping my students find connections and meaning in the literature we study. I love to watch them wrestle with a text and figure it out.”

EE: What’s your favorite thing about teaching at Tyrone?

JH: “First and foremost, I love that I am able to spend more time with my family. I’m also loving that I get to be involved with the school outside of the classroom. I was never able to be involved in the clubs and student activities at Bedford. Living an hour away from the school really put a damper on how involved I could be.”

EE: What are some of your favorite hobbies and interests?

JH: “Being Darby [the Jaffa clown] is an absolute favorite. There’s nothing like being able to put a smile on a person’s face. I also love to travel, I’m a bit of a foodie, and photography has been an interest of mine for a number of years now.”

EE: What is some good advice you’ve been given as a teacher?

JH: “A student will learn far more from you than your content. They watch your closely and learn from your interactions, reactions, expectations, and standards. Make sure you are the person you want your students to be.”

EE: What’s the hardest part of teaching and why?

JH: “For me, the hardest thing about teaching is accepting that no matter what I do, there will be students who feel that “good enough” is all that’s required. I want the best for my students, and when they accept mediocre grades and effort, that frustrates me. I don’t believe in “good enough.”

EE: What are some jobs held before you got into teaching?

JH: “I’ve had a bunch of odd jobs: a bookseller at Barnes & Noble, bartender, cook, naturopathic consultant, and TAHS Paraprofessional were the most recent before becoming a teacher.”

EE: What is something that students might be surprised to find out about you?

JH: I can’t juggle. I just haven’t gotten the hang of it…yet.

EE: What’s your favorite movie?

JH: Rankin & Bass’ The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus

EE: What is your spirit animal? Why?

JH: “A Raven: They’re naturally inquisitive and get bored easily, they’re omnivorous, and they mate for life.”