Northwood Spotlight: Susan Gallagher

General Education Para

Where are you originally from and what brought you to Mercer Island schools?
I grew up in Silver Spring, Maryland which is just outside of Washington, DC. As an adult, I lived in Boston, St. Louis, and Oakland before moving to Mercer Island with my family 21 years ago. My grown children both graduated from the Mercer Island School District, and I love living and working in this community.

What grade/area do you teach/support and how long have you been in education?
This is my first year as a General Education Parapro at Northwood. I get to spend my days assisting students in a first-grade classroom, in the lunchroom, and on the playground. I started my career as a 4th and 5th grade teacher. After my children were born, I worked part-time in a variety of
educational settings, most recently in the office of a wonderful preschool. I am very excited to be back with elementary school students this year at Northwood!

What is your favorite sport or hobby to do when you are not at school?
I love to walk with my friends, read, and bake. I also enjoy paddle boarding, ice skating, and playing pickleball.

What is the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done?
After high school, I decided to leave the familiar suburbs of DC to attend college in a small Minnesota town. I had never visited the college, I had never been west of the Mississippi River, and I didn’t know a single person at the school. It was an exciting and challenging adventure for me, and it was also one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

What are some small things that make your day better?

There’s something magical about watching students learn and grow each day! I love talking to students about whatever is on their minds. Dark chocolate and good books also make me very happy.

What is something you’ve been meaning to try, but haven’t gotten around to it?
I have very little experience with art, but I’m intrigued to learn some artistic skills. I’d love to take a pottery class or a watercolor painting class someday.

April 2023