The CE folks wanted me to submit an introduction about myself, so here’s what I sent their way:
Shannon Houghton is thrilled to bring her experience in China back to her students and colleagues at Wildwood Elementary School in Federal Way. Shannon, who received the St. Ignatius award in Seattle University’s Master in Teaching program, is finishing her second year teaching and coaching track at Wildwood.
A Michigan native, Shannon came to Washington in 2005 to join Federal Way’s AmeriCorps team, which changed her life’s path from newspaper reporting to teaching. This year, with fellow teachers Siobhan Chan and James Brown, Shannon started Wildwood’s Math Team, which has a proud and devoted following of 3rd-5th grade students.
Shannon is the 2009 Wildwood Teacher of the Year, and thrives on finding innovative ways to inspire student achievement. When she’s not at school, Shannon loves to do Pilates, play board games, softball, and volleyball, and go on adventures in Seattle.
To follow Shannon and her class, visit http://mshoughtonsclass.wordpress.com. She will update the site throughout her preparations and trip. Thank you for joining us on this journey!
Here’s the photo I included:
I don’t think I fully realize the enormity of what I’ve gotten myself into. I met up with some fellow SU teachers tonight, and they were all thrilled and supportive (honestly, where would I be without them?), but I just can’t believe I’ll actually be going to China in less than four months! My parents are excited, but nervous, as they always are before I travel. Mom and I have been diffusing this anxiety by discussing important pre-trip purchases, such as shoes, cameras, and moisture-wicking clothing. :)
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