This week's Staff Spotlight highlights the newer half to our reading specialist team, Lauren Surber. Her passion for literacy instruction has been a huge help for our teachers this year!

How long have you been a teacher?

I have been at Haycock for three years. Before coming to Haycock, I worked at Sleepy Hollow Elementary for 14 years. I was a first and second grade teacher there, as well as a reading specialist. 

What do you love about Haycock?

I feel very supported by the administration and families, and I love all the kids I have gotten to know and work with.

What makes you smile or relaxes you?

I feel most relaxed when I can find a moment of peace away from the chaos of my two boys by doing something like taking a walk outside. My boys also make me smile, but I wouldn't say they help me relax 😊

What books are you currently reading?

I read a lot of books about reading! You could call it an obsession. I am currently reading Proust and the Squid by Maryanne Wolf and Reach All Readers by Anna Geiger.

What other media entertains you?

I really enjoy documentary shows and movies based on true sports events and people. Remember the Titans came out while I was a student at T.C. Williams High School. I'm currently watching "Court of Gold" on Netflix. 

What fills your time outside of school?

I enjoy being active and doing things outside. My husband and kids are Lego-obsessed and hope one day that will become one of my interests. 

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

I went to Saint Joseph's University on a soccer scholarship, but I ended up playing on the tennis team for three years after having multiple knee surgeries.  

I know many of our students really enjoy playing an instrument. I played the violin from fourth grade until I graduated high school.