Hello! My name is Shauna Kennard, though I’ve always gone by my middle name, Celeste. This is my first year teaching second grade, and I could not be more excited to be part of the Harbison West Elementary community.

Before becoming an elementary teacher, I spent many years as a student of—and later a professional in—the field of Chemical Engineering. I earned my Bachelor of Science from the University of Florida and my Doctorate from the University of South Carolina. My research focused on understanding and predicting the behavior of cellular membranes and how they interact with proteins. While I loved the challenge and discovery that came with scientific research, the moments when I felt most energized and fulfilled were always the moments when I was teaching.

Over the years, I taught undergraduate and graduate students in thermodynamics and trained colleagues in evaluating the scientific accuracy and rigor of academic manuscripts during my time as a science editor. Teaching, mentoring, and helping others learn were the parts of my work that I looked forward to most—and ultimately, they led me to a career change that I could not be happier about.

Choosing to become an elementary school teacher has been one of the most rewarding decisions of my life. Nurturing young minds is a joyful, exhilarating, and deeply meaningful experience. I am continually amazed by the creativity, curiosity, and thoughtfulness my students bring into our classroom each day. It is truly a privilege to be part of their lives, and I hope to make as positive an impact on them as they have already made on me. I have the best class ever!

Outside of school, I love hiking in the mountains, camping, and painting. I am so excited to continue this new chapter in education and to spend many years learning, growing, and teaching alongside truly remarkable children.