Eagle Eye: Why did you decide to become a teacher?

Olivia Grugan: “This is such a hard question because I’ve never really felt like I decided. I always knew. it combines everything I love: learning stuff, multitasking, talking, performing, planning, being silly, and trying to inspire and be inspired.” 

EE: How long have you been teaching?

OG: “I have taught [for] 7 years at various schools.”

EE: Have you taught anywhere else other than Tyrone?

OG: “My first teaching job was in Guatemala. I taught elementary school English as a second language. I later taught high school English for three years in Palestine. Before coming to TAHS, I taught one year in Pittsburgh.” 

EE: What is your favorite teaching memory?

OG: “So many! I got to take a group of six students to Athens, Greece once for a Model UN Conference. I also got to direct an outdoor play once.”

EE: If you had chosen not to teach, where would you be now?

OG: “Probably working undercover for the CIA in the Middle East.” 

EE: Where did you attend high school? And college?

OG: “I was homeschooled, K-12, but I did go to “normal” college. Middlebury College for undergrad and the University of Pittsburgh for my master’s degree.” 

EE: What are some of you favorite hobbies?

OG: “Hanging out with my husband, swimming in my family’s pond, listening to the radio, performing in plays, going to farmer’s markets and street festivals, and hanging out with my four siblings.”