This week's Staff Spotlight highlights first-grade teacher Dionne Pells. She's actually in her second round of teaching here--what a treat to have her back on staff!

How long have you been a teacher?

I have been at Haycock for 14 years.   My first 7 were from 1994-2001 and I have been back at Haycock since 2018. Overall, I have taught in public, private and home school settings for over 30 years.

What were you like as a kid?

As a child, I was very inquisitive and asked a lot of questions about everything.  I was also very social and loved to talk and go places with my friends.  I enjoyed roller skating, singing, and spending long summer days swimming at our local pool.  

What made you want to work in a school?

I loved my preschool teacher at Kenwood School in Annandale.  Though I don't remember many specific details about her and the experience there, I know she had a big part in my desire to become a teacher.  

I love the variety of working in an elementary school.  Every day is different, and each year brings a new set of students to enjoy getting to know. 

What do you love about Haycock?

I love the people at Haycock.  My colleagues are some of the most professional and hard- working individuals I have ever had the pleasure of knowing.  They are also extremely funny and make working here very enjoyable.

What makes you smile or relaxes you?

Many things make me smile: 

• my two boys, 
• phone calls or visits from lifelong friends near and far, 
• hearing one of my students has had a new success. 

A sunny day at the beach is the ultimate day of relaxation for me. 

What books are you currently reading?

Man's Search for Meaning by Victor Frankl

What other media entertains you?

I love reruns of "Everybody Loves Raymond" and "M*A*S*H". "Only Murders In The Building" is a current favorite. 

I follow way too many podcasts to mention and enjoy listening to them on my commute to work.  I love all kinds of music and frequently have it on in the background.

What fills your time outside of school?

I am learning to knit and enjoy cooking new recipes when I have time. 

I also like to take old, tired wooden furniture and repaint/repurpose it. 

Our students love "fun facts" about people and topics. What's a fun fact about you?

Growing up I took several motorcycle trips with my dad on his Honda Goldwing.  We once went all the way to Nova Scotia!  I traveled in England for a month with a singing group from my college the summer after graduating.