Katie Hines Safford

What is your current role and what are your primary responsibilities?

Mom, Wife, Pilates Instructor, Wearer of Many Hats

What skills from your time at SPHS have been most valuable to you?

I would say resiliency and adaptability. Once our class found out we would be splitting from Hoover, we knew we had to come together to make our time at SPHS really special. I think it taught us all, or at least me, that change can be a really really great thing. 

How did your career path evolve?

I have always known I would not have a path that is black and white. Knowing that I always wanted to feel excited about what I do, I have found a way to incorporate the many things I love into my daily work life. At one point, I probably second guessed it. Like, wouldn't life be easier if I take the straight and narrow?? Nah. 

What advice would you give your past self about career planning?  about life planning?

Have a plan, yes, but expect for it to change and grow with you! 

Who was your favorite teacher and why (and which class did they teach)?

Ms. Bank. She has since passed away, but I will never forget her as my junior year English teacher. She had a way of making us feel safe to express ourselves. To be ourselves. One of my favorite assignments ever was a song lyric assignment (go figure). We were asked to choose a song and share it with the class, to be VULNERABLE, and to share why the lyrics speak to us on a deep level. It broke down so many walls, and I was able to see my fellow classmates in a new way, and express myself in a new way. I loved Ms. Bank.

Amber Lews (Now Ms. Mashon).  She made me feel not only like I had a great teacher, but a mentor, inspiring coach, and friend to look up to.

What extracurriculars did you participate in and how did that shape your time at SPHS?

SCO, Softball, Show Choir, and Theater. I would not be who I am if it weren't for the wonderful teachers and classmates that made these activities what they were to me. I learned so much about confidence, teamwork, leadership, and what my passions were. I am so grateful to have been a part of those things. 

What advice would you give students to maximize their high school experience?

Put yourself out there and do something that might seem scary or out of your comfort zone. Don't be afraid to be YOU and lean into your passions, dreams, and goals. And if something doesn't work, that's okay! Try again or try something new. 

What are you most proud of since graduating from SP?

Taking risks, not being afraid to move to another city, to build a life, to become a mom and put my daughter first but to also continue to feed my own fire. 

What are your favorite memories from your time at SPHS?

This may seem mundane, but I loved eating lunch in the courtyard with my friends. We had such a beautiful place to get some fresh air, laugh, eat crispitos. I also really loved the Powder Puff game. It was so fun to get out there, get dirty and have some fun. It was always one of my favorite nights. Most of all, I just love the lifelong friendships I was lucky enough to forge. This place really did shape me into who I am. 

What did you love about being a student at SP?

The camaraderie of our class.