Elmbrook Spotlight: Meet Tonawanda Teachers Heidi Hudson-Mairet and Susan Mildren

Heidi Hudson-Mairet

• School: Tonawanda Elementary School
• Grade/Subject: Special Education
• Years in the Elmbrook School District: Nine (two teaching first grade in the mid-90s, seven teaching special education 2006-present)
• College/University: undergrad: Hope College; graduate degrees: Cambridge University and University of Manchester

 
What’s the best part of teaching in the Elmbrook School District:
New and interesting challenges and rewards daily with each group of eager students / connection with students and parents

 
Why I wanted to be a teacher:
I love learning. I love working together to share/learn information.  I thrive on connecting with kids and problem solving in various situations.  I think that teachers make a difference, and I have always wanted to be a part of making a difference.

If I wasn’t a teacher, I’d be:
A naturalist - I love being outside and would enjoy spending my time outside, gardening, creating...

 
My least favorite subject in high school was:
Economics 

My favorite school lunch menu item was:
As a student: pizza.  As a teacher: chocolate chip cookies

Susan Mildren

• School: Tonawanda
• Grade/Subject: Special Education
• Years in the Elmbrook School District: One year
• College/University: UW-Green Bay and UW-Milwaukee 

What’s the best part of teaching in the Elmbrook School District:
The people.  Staff members have been so welcoming and are dedicated, energetic, and inspiring teachers. I also enjoy the excitement of all the positive changes happening within the district.

Why I wanted to be a teacher:
To help all kids receive the education they deserve 

If I wasn’t a teacher, I’d be:
A coffee shop owner 

My least favorite subject in high school was:
Chemistry 

My favorite school lunch menu item was:
Chicken patty and French fries