We’re kicking off the new year by celebrating the heart of Wolf — our incredible staff. This month’s We Are Wolf interview features Maureen Quinn, a dedicated member of our community since 2006. Keep reading to learn more about Maureen and her Wolf story.
1. Can you tell us briefly about your background and how you came to work at Wolf?
I became aware of the Wolf School by living in the neighborhood. I had just finished five years at Moses Brown, working in the Infant/Toddler program. I was also a substitute teacher there and ran programs at the M.B. summer camp. I applied to Wolf as a substitute and became a long-term sub my first year here. I knew right away it was a special place. A permanent position opened up, and I was thrilled to take it!
2. What is your favorite part about working with Complex Learners?
In my many years at Wolf, I have never met two students who learn exactly the same way, and that is part of the magic here. I love the challenge of finding what works for each student. It is really exciting to see the progress when you find the way in.
3. In addition to your role in the classroom, you are also Wolf’s very own librarian. Can you tell us a bit more about why this role is important to you?
It is such a privilege to be the Wolf School librarian. I grew up next door to a library and spent hours at a time there. It was always such a magical place for me. The librarians there were so kind to me as I checked out 20 books at a time! I am an avid reader myself and if I can help students find a “just right book” that they love, that makes my day. I get the best of both worlds teaching in the classroom and taking care of the library.
4. What has motivated you to continue to want to work at Wolf?
Seeing the growth and success of the students from year to year is incredible. Working in the youngest classroom Room 4, I also have the amazing perspective of seeing the journey for students from Room 4 to graduation, which is really inspiring and motivating. Each year is a new challenge with new rewards. Wolf is also an amazing community of professionals that I learn from every day. We really help and take care of each other.
5. What was your favorite book as a child and why?
What a good question! I loved the “Amelia Bedelia” books in elementary school. Who knew we were learning figurative language? I loved the silly scenarios. One of my all-time middle school favorites was “Starring Sally J. Friedman as Herself” by Judy Blume. It was a wonderful story set in the 1940s, just after World War II, early historical fiction. I loved being transported to a different time in history. “East of Eden” by John Steinbeck was a high school favorite. It was epic, sweeping, and tragic. As an adult reader, I tend to favor memoir. I love reading about real-life experiences.
Maureen, you are a treasure to Wolf, and we are so grateful to have you here!
To learn more about other Wolf Staff, read some of our past We Are Wolf interviews!