#Teacher Tuesday Spotlight

Today we are proud to highlight Maggie Depaoli, a fabulous 4th Grade Special Education Teacher at C.V. Starr Intermediate School. Maggie has worked in the district for three years! 

Q: What kind of student were you?

A: I always enjoyed going to school and learning new things. I was fortunate to have wonderful teachers who made learning fun and engaging, which had a big impact on me as a student.

Q: Why did you become a teacher?

A: I have always enjoyed working with kids, and I love that every day in the classroom is different. They definitely keep you on your toes! Watching students make progress and grow throughout the year is incredibly rewarding, and it’s what makes this work so meaningful to me.

Q: What's one thing your students might be surprised to learn about you?

A: I was born and raised here and am a Brewster alumna. Many of the teachers I work with now were actually my teachers, which makes it really special to be on the other side and working alongside them. I also have a very random skill of being able to talk backwards!

Q: What's something you'd like to do or someplace you'd like to go?

A: Two places on my bucket list are Greece and Iceland. I love traveling, and both destinations look absolutely beautiful and unique. I'd love to experience the Northern Lights while in Iceland.

Q: Best piece of advice ever given?

A: My parents always told me, “Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard,” and that has stuck with me. Even if you’re not the most naturally talented, you can always choose to be the hardest worker in any room. That mindset has helped shape who I am today and taught me you need to work for anything you earn in life.

Q: Has a student ever taught you anything?

A: My students teach me new things everyday. Each one brings their own experiences, interests, and perspective into the classroom. I’ve learned some fun (and random) facts, like a group of starfish being called a “galaxy”, but more importantly, they’ve taught me patience, empathy, and the importance of staying curious. They remind me to slow down and see things from different perspectives.

Q: Favorite Brewster tradition

A: This might be a common answer, but I’ve always loved going to Mr. Brewster. It’s such an incredible tradition, and it’s amazing to see how much it has grown over the years. The students put in so much effort to support an important cause, and it’s always a fun and meaningful night for the entire community.

Thank you Maggie!