Years experience in an educational setting:  Since 1990 

• Remote Teacher in Fairbanks and Sitka Alaska 

• School teacher,Substance Abuse counselor, Ropes Course Manager/Outdoor guide  as part of a wilderness therapeutic program located in Sitka, Alaska 

• Crisis Counselor in the Bath School District, Maine

• Student Coordinator for the Centre for Students with disabilities in Victoria, British Columbia

• Special Education Director - Harwood Union

• Principal of Harwood Union, Moretown Elementary, Harwood Middle School and CBMS 

Why do I work in a middle school? 

Middle School students are the finest of teachers.  They act as mirrors that constantly and consistently challenge my approach, beliefs and curiosity about the world I live in.  As a lifelong learner I continue to be challenged and learn from each interaction that I am fortunate to have with them.  It is a privilege to serve our student centered community each day.  

Years experience in an educational setting:  Since 2006 

• Middle School math and science teacher 

• Assistant Director of private Vermont School 

• Winooski School System  - teaching math and coaching other educators 

Why do I work in a middle school? 

I have always enjoyed middle school and working with young adolescents, because at this age, there is a vast amount of growth in a student’s understanding of the world around them and their role in it, which includes their impact on themselves and others. As an administrator, so far, I have enjoyed building relationships with staff and students and developing routines and structures that allow for the success and safety of all.

Years experience working in an educational setting:  Since 2004

• Crossett Brook Middle School 

• Program Manager and Course Director for Urban Expeditions at NYC Outward Bound School

• Health Director and Lead Instructor for Wilderness Expeditions at NYC Outward Bound Schools 

Why do I work in a middle school?   

"Middle School is a time of incredible growth, academically and personally, for students; this happens through success, failure, and, most importantly, effort.  The key is to focus on students' effort, which will lead to increased learning and growth from successes and failures; the highs and lows of success and failure are fleeting, but the effort we put in is never-ending."

Years experience in an educational setting: Since 2007

• JV and Varsity Girls Lacrosse Coach Burlington/Essex/Harwood

• 1 v 1 Elementary paraeducator Burlington/Crested Butte, CO

• High school Health educator, Essex 

• Student Support Specialist(Middle High School) Harwood 

• Dean of Students CBMS

• Camp for Me Teen Counselor- Summers

• Executive function coach Essex

• SEL Coordinator

Why do I work in a middle school? 

I appreciate middle schoolers' unique and energetic nature.  I like having the opportunity to support them through this period of their lives and recognize their dynamic needs. I also like to celebrate them along the way.

jhempey@huusd.org

Years experience in an educational setting:  Since 1998 

• Dorm parent, Rock Point School,

• Main Street Middle School,

• 28 years of Basketball and Softball Coaching with students ages 3-18. 

• Camp Counselor and Program Administrator

Why do I work in a middle school? 

I enjoy working with kids, getting to know them, supporting their growth, and helping them manage the challenging moments of growing up. 

Ellie is our School-Based Clinician working with students through one of our partner agencies. We are excited to have her here to build relationships with our students.