TEACHER FEATURE

Mrs. Little, Assistant Principal

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What brought you to WYWLA?

I have worked in education for over twenty years. While most of that time was spent at the high school level, I have worked with students of all ages. When I decided to move into administration, I was looking for a school where I was excited to support the work of the staff, students, and families. From the moment I walked onto our campus, I knew it was exactly where I wanted to be! Our school is full of outstanding women leaders working to grow in the areas of leadership, learning, and service. I am thankful to be a part of this environment each and every day. 

What is your impression of WYWLA?  

WYWLA is a great place to work and learn! Our students are phenomenal, our staff is outstanding, and our families are terrific! I love it!

What is one piece of advice you try to inculcate in students? 

I grew up watching Mister Roger’s Neighborhood, and he was from my hometown! (You might know of him if you’ve ever seen the cartoon, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood.) He taught me the importance of being kind. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve learned that being kind and being nice aren’t always the same thing (look into that or stop by to chat about it), but approaching every situation with kindness in my heart truly makes a difference. I hope to instill the same belief in students. 

What was your middle school/ high school experience like? 

Where I grew up, we had junior high school and high school. I really enjoyed it! I liked the increased independence as I moved through the grade levels, the choices for courses, and all of the clubs and activities! I took lots of art and science electives, was a soccer goalie, ran track, was a cheerleader, was in the student council, the honor society, and volunteered. I also worked as a lifeguard and babysat. I had chores that needed to be done, and loved hanging out with my friends!

What is one fun fact about you?  

I love to create! When I was in high school, art was one of my favorite classes. Even as an adult, I still love to sketch and paint. 

Where did you graduate from college?  Major?

I went to Pennsylvania State University for undergraduate school, majoring in Agricultural and Environmental Extension. I loved learning about the water, air, and soil that sustain our lives! Later, I attended North Carolina State University to earn a Master of School Administration degree. Through both, I like to say that I was learning all about helping to make things grow - plants, animals, and people! 

What music do you listen to on the way to work?  On the ride home?  What type of music do you listen to/prefer?  Favorite artists/ bands?  Favorite songs?

On the way to work, I usually listen to the news. I know that my day will be busy, so I try to catch up on world events then. On the ride home, I like to listen to whatever fits my mood. Sometimes I have the volume up loud while I sing along, other times it’s something peaceful and relaxing, and sometimes I even turn on an audio book! 

What was your first teen idol crush?

The New Kids on the Block. My first concert was to see them, and I was so excited! To get ready, I put on my jean jacket, decorated it with giant buttons of the group, added some extra hairspray to my side ponytail and fluffy bangs, and headed out the door! 

Favorite author? Book? Genre?

In any category, it is always difficult for me to pick a favorite. I find that the types of books I read change. During the school year, I enjoy reading about education, leadership, and all things tied to my work. On breaks, I love reading about nature and the environment. At the beach or the pool, I like something light and fun!

Mrs. Stearns

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What brought you to WYWLA?

I had moved to North Carolina after previously living in Utah and teaching high school. I was willing to try something new and expanded my job search to include middle schools. The principal at the time saw my resume and called me for an interview. I loved what the school was about and accepted the job offer! That was year two of the school’s existence and I still love what we are doing here.

What is your impression of WYWLA?  

I love the sisterhood and school culture. One of my favorite things is when graduated students come back and share what they are doing. It’s such a unique thing to know a student for 7 years; you see them really grow into young adults. 

What is one piece of advice you try to inculcate in students? 

A positive mindset. Everything in life isn’t going to be easy. Finding the positive, no matter how small, will keep you going.

What was your middle school/ high school experience like? What is one way a teacher has influenced you?

I went to a small school with uniforms. It was k-8, then 9-12. Everyone was really close. I had some amazing teachers. My high school health and PE teacher encouraged me to pursue teaching. High school PE and being on various sports teams lead me to get a degree in physical education and health. 

What is one fun fact about you?  

I have participated in a time out/intermission game during a National Women's Soccer League, National Hockey League, Minor League Baseball, and a National Basketball Association game.

Where did you graduate from college?  Major?

Utah State University is where I earned my Bachelor of Science in Physical Education and minor in Health Education. At Weber State University I earned my Masters of Education in Curriculum Instruction and Design.

What music do you listen to on the way to work?  On the ride home?  What type of music do you listen to/prefer?  Favorite artists/ bands?  Favorite songs?

Most mornings it's the Dave Matthews Band Channel on Sirius XM. I might switch it to the 90s or the channel called Rock the Bells with LL Cool J. On the way home I call myom and we chat for the whole drive.

I listen to a variety of music from jam bands to pop, classic rock to hip hop. 

What was your first teen idol crush?

I don’t know if its my first, but my friends and I were obsessed with Brad Pitt and Leonardo DiCaprio.

Favorite author? Book? Genre?

I do wish I had more time to read. When I do get a chance to read I like historical fiction.

Congratulations on winning North Carolina’s Middle School Health Educator of the Year! Tell us more about that! How do you win the award? When did you find out you received it, and what was your reaction? What does winning this award mean to you?

Thank you! Someone has to nominate you. I was nominated by a retired WCPSS PE teacher and now adjunct professor at Meredith College. She has been a sub here several times and is familiar with how I teach and other things I do around WYWLA. I was humbled that she thought how I teach was worthy of a nomination. Once nominated, I had to get letters of recommendation from Dr. Walker, a colleague, and a current or former student. I then received an email letting me know that I had won! I was very excited. Receiving this award means I am making a difference. Everyday showing up for kids, trying new things in the classroom, and creating experiences for students matter! It is inspiring to keep going.