Ms. Merrill is the Director of Talent at Alma del Mar Charter Schools.
What made you decide to join the Crew at Alma?
I have worked in urban education for 12 years in Chicago, Boston, Providence and now New Bedford. I am committed to working for a better education for all kids. What made me choose Alma over any other school was the focus on building a strong adult crew. I know that the adults set the tone in a school and make a school a happy, safe, and successful place for kids. It was clear from the very beginning what a passionate, dedicated, and kind staff there is at Alma and I could not wait to be a part of it.
What do you hope to contribute to Alma?
I hope to find and help develop the best teachers and staff on the planet for our kids.
What teacher made a difference in your life, and how?
The three teachers who stand out as my favorites were Mr. Tobin (4th grade), Mr. Politelli (AP World History), and Ms. Netcoh (9th grade, 11th grade and 12th grade English). The factors that all three had in common were a wacky sense of humor and exceptionally high standards. Mr. Tobin and Mr. Politelli inspired me to love history and become a history major in college. Ms. Netcoh made me a strong writer and led me to be successful in college and beyond.
Where did you go to college? What did you like about your college?
I grew up thinking that college meant Boston College because that is where my parents met. Boston College was really the only choice I ever considered and my younger sister followed after me. The most important thing I learned about at B.C. was the Jesuit call to work for social justice and equity and the possibility of education to transform lives.
What is your favorite food?
Pizza
What is your favorite book?
To Kill a Mockingbird, Little Women, Harry Potter, and In the Time of the Butterflies.