After graduating from Salem Academy in 2004, Caitlin attended the University of Virginia where she received a joint Bachelor of Arts in English and a Master of Teaching in Elementary Education during a five-year program. Caitlin taught for nine years in public schools, where many students were on free and reduced lunch, and in private schools where she worked with students in the school’s animation lab. Caitlin valued teaching in those various settings, by both facing and overcoming different sets of challenges, and loved working with colleagues on various professional development projects and opportunities. With these dynamic experiences, Caitlin eventually led professional development and curriculum development in her school.

After taking a pause from teaching, Caitlin took some time to be at home full time with her two children, but will be soon returning to the classroom this fall as an Exploring Lab teacher at her children’s preschool. She also volunteers at school sharing presentations with parents about the school’s curriculum and how the school best prepares their kids for kindergarten.

How did you and your family decide that Salem Academy was right for you?

After looking at numerous schools in the area for high school, we chose Salem based on its strong academics and its ability to create strong women outside the classroom as well.

What’s one thing about Salem Academy that you would like everyone to know?

I think one of the best things about Salem is its traditions–purple and gold days, Chapel talks, senior skits–those are some of my most fond and core high school memories. The homemade cookie breaks were wonderful too!

How does the Academy’s STEAM focus prepare students for college and careers?

As someone who attended a liberal arts college, STEAM was always a part of my education, even majoring in English. I believe students desiring to major in areas outside of the sciences, like I did, would still feel confident in their coursework having come from a high school where STEAM was highly valued. Furthermore, I can see this type of focus at the Academy giving students seeking to enter a STEAM profession–doctor, dentist, engineer–a strong foundation going into their collegiate degree work.

What’s your favorite memory of Salem Academy outside the classroom?

During my time at Salem, I was on the volleyball team. A group of us decided that we wanted to continue playing outside of the school season and formed a travel volleyball team. I loved our weekend tournaments and the memories we made both on and off the court.

How did Salem Academy prepare you for college?

First and foremost, Salem made me an active participant in the classroom. Before attending Salem, I was hesitant to participate. Upon graduating and going to school at UVA, I was more willing to share my thoughts and ideas and unafraid of what people thought. Salem Academy’s English teachers grew my love of literature and also helped me become a strong writer, both of which allowed me to be successful in my English coursework in college.

What would be your recommendation to a student who is considering studying at Salem Academy, but can’t decide if she wants to attend?

For someone considering Salem Academy, I would tell them it is a place where you can safely take risks and can begin to grow into the best version of yourself both as a student and as a person. The teachers are genuinely invested in your learning and your growth and are willing to give of their time outside of class to further support students and their studies.