Ms. Meckler: I had many influential teachers who inspired me to be the same positive influence for the next generation.
WHAT SCHOOL DISTRICTS DID YOU WORK IN BEFORE YOU CAME TO BRENTWOOD?
Ms. Bordone: Before coming to Brentwood, I spent a year teaching at Keystone Oaks High School. It was a fantastic opportunity to begin my teaching career, and I had the pleasure of meeting some wonderful colleagues during my time there.
Ms. Meckler: Previously, I worked in the Fox Chapel Area School District at Dorseyville Middle School for two years as a building substitute and one year as a long-term substitute.
WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING PART OF TEACHING IN YOUR FIRST YEAR IN A NEW SCHOOL DISTRICT?
Ms. Bordone: The most challenging part of teaching in a new school district was quickly getting acquainted with the students and faculty. I started teaching after the school year had already begun and feared I might not be easily accepted. Although this was initially a challenge, both the staff and students were very welcoming upon my arrival, and I now feel like an official part of the district.
Ms. Meckler: The word " challenge " often has a negative connotation, but I have accepted it as a positive one. My challenge is managing diverse learners. While Brentwood is a close community, it represents over twenty countries. I strive to build rapport and differentiate learning for each individual.
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVORITE PART OF TEACHING AT BRENTWOOD?
Ms. Bordone: So far, my favorite part about teaching at Brentwood has to be the relationships I’ m building with the students and staff. This community is supportive, welcoming, and vibrant, making it a joy to come to work every day. The students bring lots of energy to the classroom and staff members are collaborative and always willing to lend a helping hand.
Ms. Meckler: The best thing about Brentwood is, hands down, the sense of community. It has been such a warm welcome.
WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR INTERESTS OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL?
Ms. Bordone: Outside of school, I’ ve been diving into some exciting home renovation projects and exploring the world of interior design. It’ s a creative outlet where I get to transform spaces into something amazing. Plus,
it’ s a great way to unwind and see the results of my hard work come to life!
Ms. Meckler: I am very close to my family, who live in the Pittsburgh area. I am also an avid reader and interested in hobbies like puzzles, music, and exercise.
IF YOU WEREN ' T A TEACHER, WHAT PROFESSION WOULD YOU CHOOSE AND WHY?
Ms. Bordone: I’ ve been asked occasionally what career I would choose if I weren’ t a teacher. I’ ve spent some time considering this question, but I always come back to the same conclusion: no other profession would be as fulfilling as teaching. The joy and satisfaction I get from inspiring and educating students is unmatched by any other career.
Ms. Meckler: Before deciding to become a teacher, I considered becoming a librarian. This profession involves being immersed in reading and being part of a community, both of which I knew I would want in my career. rentwood Borough
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BRENTWOOD-BALDWIN-WHITEHALL ❘ SPRING 2025 17