Things for Shannon Peachey are Keen at the Jones School

Editor's Note: Each week Stoughton Patch will be shining a spotlight on a dedicated town employee whose hard work contributes to the continued betterment of our community.

Have anyone you would like to see featured as part of this series? Let us know by emailing jeffrey.pickette@patch.com.

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Shannon Peachey, Integrated Preschool Teacher, Edwin A. Jones School

Possessing the poise and professionalism of a seasoned educator, one may be surprised to learn that Shannon Peachey (Ms. Peachey) is actually beginning her first year of teaching. 

Upon entering Ms. Peachey’s classroom, with its well defined learning centers, various textured carpets and fun bulletin boards, it demonstrates not only her knowledge of early childhood education, but also her pride and excitement to be part of the . 

Peachey, who has resided in Waltham her entire life, does not mind the commute at all. In fact, it is second nature.

Peachey, a Stonehill College graduate, conducted her pre-practicum within the Brockton Public Schools and in her senior year student taught at both the J.F.K. Elementary in Canton and her new home, the Jones School.

The youngest of six children, Peachey lives at home with her mother, father and one of her brothers when he is not on base (he is currently on his second deployment to Afghanistan).  Her other two brothers and two sisters have all started families of their own. 

Best words to describe my job…

There aren’t too many that don’t…being an integrated preschool teacher (or any teacher) means doing a little bit of everything!

My Job Entails…

Of course, there are the curriculum components and Massachusetts frameworks that most everyone associates with teaching.  But there is so much more than that, especially at the beginning of the year. 

You need to have good people skills, with adults as well as the children.  Here at the Jones, we are fortunate enough to see the parents at the start and end of each school day. 

It is critical that I actively listen to the parents of my students.  Doing so helps me to better understand what “makes each one tick,” therefore allowing me to adapt my teaching style to his or her needs.

With it being an integrated classroom, I have wonderful teaching aides within the different sessions we offer.  Again, interpersonal skills are essential to facilitating a successful co-teaching environment and ultimately an enriching environment for the kids.

This position is right for me…

I have always wanted to work with kids, but I didn’t always want to be a teacher.  I majored in early childhood education and psychology at Stonehill. I initially chose early childhood education for the child development aspect.  At that time I saw myself in the field of Psychology. 

Ironically, it wasn’t until I student taught, here at the Jones with Nicole Velozo, that I realized how much I loved it.  My pre-practicum and student teaching in the 2nd grade assured me that an integrated preschool was my niche.

Student teaching for one semester was not enough—I had to come back and see my babies. So I decided to create a “self-designed internship” (which is not commonplace at Stonehill). 

After receiving the multiple levels of approval, I was able to work with Mrs. Velozo, two days a week, for the remainder of the year.  (Actually, she would work at the Jones for the morning session, hurry back to Stonehill for her Physics Class and then it was back to the Jones for the afternoon session. 

Favorite part of the job…

So far, getting to know each one of my students.  For many, this is their first school experience so my primary function right now is that of a caregiver.  It is great to see as each of the children (and parents) become more comfortable at drop off!

Frustrations of the job…

It’s all too new to have any frustrations.  I think if there were anything, it would probably be the same as my favorite aspect of the job. 

I find that I am so eager for the students to acclimate so we can get into the fun stuff of being a class.  But it takes time and sometimes patience can feel a bit like frustration.

Best place to break for lunch…

The teachers’ lounge, a.k.a. the library.  The teacher’s room is in a bit of transition since all the classrooms are utilized.  But regardless of where we eat, lunch with my colleagues is the best!

When I am off the clock…

I enjoy reading, mostly fiction and pretty much anything on the best-sellers list. My friends and I will often go to the movies.  We just saw The Help, which coincidentally is the last book I read and both versions were really good!

When the weather is nice I love to spend my time at the beach, my favorite is Good Harbor in Glouster.

Favorite Hangout…

Being from Waltham, my friends and I tend to go to Moody Street.  There are so many good places to grab a bite to eat, I could never pick just one.