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Susanne Crawford

     I am very excited to begin my journey at Athena this year by starting the new p4 classroom. In anticipation of getting to know each other better in person, I would like to share with you some personal background. I was born and raised in the Seattle area and relocated to Austin last summer. While growing up, some of my favorite pastimes were drawing, sculpting, painting, and playing the violin. After high school I spent six months travelling throughout Europe and North Africa, which fueled my desire to explore the world further. After returning home and attending Bellevue College, I subsequently embarked on an around the world journey. During this year-long trip, I focused on exploring many of the varied and magnificent cultures in Asia. The life experiences gained while abroad have had an enormous impact on me, and helped to prepare me for my life’s calling: working with children. 

Upon returning to the Seattle area, I started working as a teacher at a traditional preschool.  After about a year I was exposed to Montessori as part of observing various schools, and I was drawn to learn more about the incredible work I witnessed. In 2000, an opportunity presented itself to become an assistant teacher in a Montessori classroom, and I happily accepted. The Montessori teaching methods, philosophies, and peaceful environment proved to be exactly what I was looking for as an educator. In 2001-2002 I completed my AMS training and internship.  After lead teaching for four years I was promoted to the school’s program supervisor, which included teaching duties as well as overseeing our culinary and creative arts programs.  I loved being able to connect our menu and daily food preparation to our classroom curriculum and transform our art program from a more traditional model to child centered Montessori art.  My last two years in Seattle were spent as as the Executive Director of the  same Montessori school where I had previously been so fortunate to teach. This position helped broaden my understanding of the immense effort that goes into running a school, and I was grateful to have experienced Montessori through that lens. However the biggest lesson I learned as a school administrator was that my heart and soul belong in the classroom, and I am delighted with the opportunity to teach again.

I currently live in East Austin with my husband Daniel, two Great Danes, and my two incredible children: Ruby, who is three, and Quinten, who is one. They will both be attending Athena and I am eager to gain a whole new perspective this year as I witness the benefits of a Montessori education as a parent.  In my spare time I enjoy working on my many art projects (acrylic paintings at the moment), reading, gardening, photography, and spending time with my wonderful family.  

Every day I am amazed by the immense potential each child I encounter displays. It is my goal to promote a spirit of kindness, as well as a sense of wonder and love of learning to last a lifetime with every child I work with. I feel very fortunate for the chance to be a part of great discovery in a place where the world is truly filled with awe and amazement.   

Sincerely,  Susanne Crawford