We are excited to welcome Haley French to Hoosic Valley Jr./Sr. High as our new Special Education teacher! Haley recently achieved a significant milestone by graduating from Saint Rose with both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.
When asked about her experience so far at Hoosic Valley, Haley shared, “A positive experience that I’ve had at Hoosic Valley has been meeting the staff members so far. Everyone has been so inviting and friendly, and I really feel like a part of the school community already!”
Haley’s journey into education was profoundly influenced by a meaningful experience during a 7th grade English leave of absence. She recalls, “I made connections with every single student, and they begged for me to not leave. When I returned to sub, I’d never seen so many kids excited to see me. That was most meaningful and impactful to me as it showed me that I made a difference in those students’ lives in such a short amount of time.”
This experience shaped Haley’s approach to teaching, reinforcing her commitment to being a teacher who provides a safe and comfortable space for her students. She strives to be that person her students can always turn to, knowing they will be supported and understood.
Haley also fondly remembers the teachers who inspired her, particularly Mrs. Gurka and Ms. Brophy, her middle and high school English teachers. Haley was even fortunate enough to student teach alongside Ms. Brophy, an experience that left a lasting impact on her teaching philosophy. “I wouldn’t be here in my role as a teacher without all of my middle school and high school English teachers,” she says.
Haley’s story is a reminder that we always remember our favorite teachers and how they inspire us to reach our full potential. Welcome to Hoosic Valley Haley!