September 16, 2016
The 2016-17 school year began with numerous classroom changes, facility enhancements, and for the first time ever, two sections of Kindergarten and First Grade! A growing number of Lower School students resulted in the need for an additional teacher. We have been so lucky to have Jordan Qualls join the TDS family as the Kindergarten Assistant, working with both Mrs. Cowan and Mrs. Morgan.
She has been a wonderful addition to the TDS faculty, and I wanted to share more about her with you, in her own words:
What is your previous teaching experience?
I had the pleasure of teaching in three daycare centers (Bright Horizons, Yates Baptist Child Development Center, and Primrose) before finding TDS. I enjoyed working with preschool aged children; however, I loved the idea of working with kindergarten. I saw the kindergarten assistant position posted on the TDS website, and I knew it would be a great fit for me!
What attracted you to Triangle Day School?
I had been told by friends and family to look for career openings in independent schools. A quick Google search led me to TDS. I was in love by the end of my interview! Mrs. Aguilar and Mr. Norry made me feel welcomed from the first time I visited, and all other faculty made me feel like part of the team once I met them.
What do you like about TDS?
TDS has such a strong focus on loving and caring for the people around you. It warms my heart to see the kindergarteners greeted by middle schoolers in the hallways. TDS feels like home! There is a sense of belonging, and I enjoy seeing even the youngest students demonstrate their knowledge of TDS’s core values each day.
Pets?
I have a pit bull named Coco. She is about as scary as a marshmallow! She is very loving and sweet. Be warned: if you come near her, she will instantly drop to the floor so you can pat her belly!
Favorite color?
Purple.
Fun Fact:
I was an only child until I was 15, when my mom gave birth to my sister, Julysse. Two years later, my other sister, Jynai, was born! My sisters are my favorite people in the world!
Caroline Gobble, Lower School Coordinator
What’s happening in Middle School:
TDS welcomes Mr. Robert Whitmore to the Middle School as our 7th and 8th grade Social Studies teacher. He is filling in for Ms. Hopkins during her maternity leave. In addition to eighth grade US History, Mr. Whitmore is teaching Global Studies to the seventh graders, and his past work all over the world certainly qualifies him for the job! Please read below to find out more about Mr. Whitmore.
What is your previous teaching experience?
I spent the past two years teaching at the French International School in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Before that I taught in Washington, DC, both in the public school system and at Sidwell Friends. I began my teaching career in Benin, West Africa with the U.S. Peace Corps.
What attracted you to Triangle Day School?
The spotlight that TDS puts on their core values and the idea of school-wide ownership are both concepts that resonated with me. Social responsibility is a concept that can never be taught too early.
How is the Middle School at TDS unique compared to other schools?
The amount of positive reinforcement I have seen teachers emphasize has been remarkable. The Middle School faculty does a great job of encouraging students and it definitely shows.
How would you describe the kids who attend TDS?
Enthusiastic!
What has been your favorite TDS experience so far?
Anything that involves Al’s bbq.
Pets?
I wish! I am currently looking into adopting a dog. We’ll see!
Favorite color?
Forest Green.
Fun Fact:
Last year I had the chance to go swimming with whale sharks. They’re huge!
We are fortunate to have Mr. Whitmore on the TDS team.
Kelly Aguilar, Acting Middle School Coordinator
