Mrs. Hawthorne

Hello students and families! My name is Mirna Hawthorne and I am thrilled to be your 4th grade teacher this year.  This year will begin my 21st year in education and my 6th in 4th grade-my favorite grade level! I have a master’s degree in Curriculum Design from George Mason University.  I have taught in international schools in Russia, Brazil, and Bulgaria in various capacities - from a classroom aide to grade level head teacher. In the United States, I taught first grade in California, and now 4th grade in GCS. I am a Teacher Liaison for the Space Foundation and I passionately advocate for educational program within the context of space. This year I have the honor to represent AJW as the 2023-2024 Teacher of the Year.

I was born and raised in Croatia and Serbia and my life path has taken me all around the world!  I have had the pleasure to travel extensively and work on my studies in different countries. I speak 5 languages and I love learning about new places and different cultures! My husband Casey and I met in Moscow, Russia and we have three daughters: Mila (14), Madi (13), and Marissa (10). We love Broadway tunes and we sing all the time. I absolutely love teaching and I cannot wait to start this school year - it is going to be the best one YET!