Angell Elementary third grade teacher Sarah Moynihan spent her formative years in Michigan and graduated from Eastern Michigan University. Her journey then led her to San Francisco, where she dedicated nine years to teaching elementary students and another two years to coaching mathematics in Oakland. In 2018, Moynihan, her husband, and their daughter returned to Ann Arbor, driven by a desire to be closer to family and to immerse themselves in a tight-knit community. Their household is rounded out by their two beloved dogs, Finn and Watson, who delight in strolls through the Arboretum and cozying up by the fire.
This is Moynihan’s first full year at Angell.
“Sarah’s love for teaching is evident in every interaction she has with kids, families, and staff,” says Angell Principal Meg Fenech. “She genuinely values her students, she conveys high expectations for all learners, and she empowers each and every child. Masterfully attuned to students’ social, emotional, and academic needs, Sarah has cultivated a learning environment where risk-taking, active engagement, and collaboration are the norm.”
Why do you like working at Angell Elementary?
The sense of community here is palpable, and I’m grateful to be part of such a warm and supportive environment that fosters academic excellence and personal development. Every day brings new adventures and opportunities for growth.
How does the curriculum and teaching approach at Angell differ from what you were used to in San Francisco?
While San Francisco offered a unique educational landscape, Angell’s emphasis on teaching the whole child, prioritizing social-emotional needs and individual learning, has opened up an entirely new world of possibilities for both myself and my students, encouraging a deeper level of engagement and exploration.
What has surprised you the most about Angell and this new community so far?
The genuine sense of belonging and support that permeates every interaction. From the enthusiastic welcome I received on my first day to the continuous encouragement and collaboration among staff and families, I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the depth of camaraderie and unity that defines Angell.
What is the best part of your workday?
While every part of my workday brings its own joys, the moments of genuine connection with my students hold a special place in my heart. Whether it’s a shared joke, a comforting hug, or a breakthrough in understanding, these interactions remind me of the profound impact teachers can have on their students’ lives.
What’s the most challenging part about being a teacher?
Every student has unique strengths, weaknesses, and backgrounds, requiring personalized attention and differentiated instruction. Balancing this individualized approach with the demands of a standardized curriculum can be quite demanding. It requires constant adaptation, creativity, and patience to ensure that every student receives the support they need to thrive academically and personally.
What professional development opportunities are you looking forward to at Angell?
I’m particularly excited to learn from Angell’s exceptional staff. With such a broad range of experience and expertise among my colleagues, I’m eager to learn from their insights and strategies. Collaborating closely with them offers a unique chance for me to enhance my teaching skills and broaden my approach.
Do you have any tips for building relationships with students’ families?
Building strong relationships with students’ families is fundamental to creating a supportive and cohesive learning environment. One tip I’d offer is to actively seek out opportunities for communication and more importantly, collaboration with families, whether it’s through regular updates, student-led family conferences, one-on-one visits, or involvement in school events. Fostering open dialogue and partnership ensures the success and well-being of our students.
What advice would you give a first-year teacher?
Approach each day with a spirit of curiosity. Try to see the day through the eyes of your students. Their experience is more important than anything else. Embrace the inevitable challenges as opportunities for growth. Seek guidance and support from experienced colleagues. Above all, always keep sight of the profound impact you have on the lives of your students.
What do you know now that you wish you had when first starting your career?
Reflecting on my journey as an educator, I realize the importance of prioritizing self-care and setting boundaries from the outset. It’s all too easy to become consumed by the demands of teaching, but honoring personal well-being ultimately enables you to be a more effective educator in the long run; which is ultimately best for your students.
You live downtown close to school. What’s that like? And how do you like Ann Arbor?
It is always an adventure! It’s like being at the heart of all the action, where the city’s pulse meets the tranquility of a close-knit community. Ann Arbor, with its charm and vibrant culture, provides the perfect backdrop for both work and play, offering endless opportunities for exploration and connection.
Favorite websites/podcasts/books:
I enjoy reading and listening to my weekly Marshall Memo (a weekly round-up of ideas and research in K-12 education) for professional growth and learning. For fun, I thoroughly enjoy fictional books and exploring all genres of music. I love exploring AADL’s recommended books. “The Wild Robot” is actually next on my list, as a recommendation from one of my students!
What’s most exciting about your professional life? Your personal life?
The 26 children in my class and my 6-year-old daughter create more excitement and dynamism than I know what to do with. Every day is a different adventure, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Right now, watching my garden return to life after the long winter is pretty invigorating!
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