Mirror: What is your role at DPS?

Shannon Sheldon: Director of Multilingual Learning.

M: How long have you been teaching?

S: This is year 20! 

M: Where have you taught before?

S: I came from Weston, most recently, where I was the district DEI and ML Coordinator, and before that I was a teacher for 15+ years and an instructional coach in Brockton. 

M: Where did you go to college?

S: Bridgewater State (it was College then!)

M:What do you like most about teaching?

S: When something clicks for a student. Watching kids learn is a phenomenal experience, and I feel really lucky to have been a part of so many people’s lives when they’ve had these moments.

M: Where are you from?

S: Bridgewater, MA.

M: What are your hobbies?

S: I am a dance teacher/choreographer (started the Dance Team at BSU, who are current national champions), and I love to sing, ski, and swim.

M: What are your pet peeves in the classroom?

S: Lack of respect and/or effort. I’m a pretty chill teacher and I like to have fun, so if you’re bringing anything other than good vibes to my class, I don’t have time or patience for that.

M: What do you like about Dedham?

S: Dedham as a school district is doing really great things for its students. The adults so far are top tier, and I really like everyone I work with. I’ve only seen smiles on students’ faces, which means kids like coming to school, so we must be doing something right! Plus, shopping at Legacy Place on my way home isn’t awful either. 

M: What inspired you to become a teacher?       

S: Kids. And, my mom- she was a lifelong educator (and my 5th grade teacher!) and she truly inspired me to want to be a positive influence in kids’ lives and contribute to them being the best version of themselves.                        

M: What is your favorite movie?

S: UGH. Too many. Pulp Fiction and Moana. 

M: What is your favorite book?

S: Hunger Games and Handmaid’s Tale.

M: Favorite song? 

S: Can’t choose. 

M: What sets you apart from other teachers?

S: The relationships I build with students. I get texts, emails, and messages on socials from students who are grown and living their lives, but always remember to drop me a note telling me how they’re doing. 

M: Will you be involved in any extracurricular activities?

S: Hopefully! I think Dedham needs a dance team, and I heard they want to get musicals up and running again at the elementary schools. 

M: Favorite apps on your phone?

S: FB/IG, Block Blast, Pinterest, and all things shopping.

M: Favorite food/favorite restaurant? 

S: Del Frisco’s or Moo, and I love french fries and Starbucks. 

M: Favorite sports team?

S: Everything Boston.