Caroline Sarnoff - Director of Admissions          

 

EWS has a fresh face for all potential new students and families with Director of Admissions Caroline Sarnoff. Caroline comes to EWS after serving as the Director of Admissions for the Art Institute of Houston, and she is anxious to get know our current and future families, as well as their extended families.

 

"It's a remarkable feeling when you can help make a difference in a child's life. Here, I'm given the chance to help families make constructive decisions regarding their educational paths. If I can play even a small part in the positive growth and development of our young people it will be truly satisfying." 

David Berthold - US Performing Arts          

New Fine Arts Teacher David Berthold joins EWS from Fort Worth Day School up north as the Technical Theater Director. David has already had his trial by fire with his first official duty to help Head of School Stuart J. Dow pull off another spectacular Opening Ceremony earlier this month. 

 

"The strong sense of community, the positive atmosphere and The Emery Difference were what drew me to the EWS Theater Department. I'm excited about bringing my own knowledge and passion for theater to the Fine Arts Department, and getting to know and becoming a part of the very welcoming community."

 

David comes to EWS with a bachelor's degree in fine arts from Webster University, and a masters degree in education from the University of Texas at Arlington.

 

When not glued to the production booth in the Becker Theater, David can be found on the golf course seeking to improve his game, running or building Lego sets. David will help students improving their running abilities as he is also the head coach for the Cross Country Team. 

James "Trip" Galleher - US English         

The newest addition to the US English Department is Trip Galleher, who is teaching English I and III. Trip graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a degree in history before spending four years teaching in public school. He joins us most recently from Clear Creek High School, citing the smaller class sizes a main reason for making the transition.

 

"I like the smaller size of the school and the focus on community-minded and service-oriented programs. There is a passion for learning and teaching here that leaves me excited for classroom discussions, student trips and Tikkun Olam projects."

  

Outside of the classroom, Trip enjoys reading, spending time outdoors and taking trips to New Orleans and West Texas. When at home in Houston, he can often be found watching a documentary on musicians or bands, no matter the type of music. 

Laura Larkin - US Counselor         

 

Joining new English Teacher Trip Galleher from Clear Creek ISD is Laura Larkin, the US Guidance Counselor. Laura taught and was a counselor at Brookside Intermediate and Clear Creek High School prior to joining the private school ranks.

 

"Every time I visited EWS, I was struck by the energy, friendliness and positive attitudes here. This is such a special environment and I'm really excited to be a part of it, and to getting to know the students, parents and faculty around me."

 

Gary Lauderdale - US Math         

 

The new kid in the Math Department block is Gary Lauderdale, who joins EWS from West Briar Middle School. Gary earned a dual bachelor's degree in political science and psychology from Florida State University. Gary is teaching Algebra II and Pre-Calculus.

 

"The environment is really ideal and I'm looking forward to everything new about this year."

 

Robyn Miller - US Judaics         

 

Rounding out the Judaics Department is new hire Robyn Miller, a recent transplant to Houston from The Eleanor Kolitz Academy in San Antonio. Robyn brings an extensive background in Judaics studies, including a bachelor's degree in Jewish studies and political science from the University of Minnesota, a master's degree in political management from George Washington University, a master's in Jewish education from Hebrew College and a certificate of advanced Jewish studies from the Parades Institute of Jewish studies.

 

"EWS seems like a unique, creative and supportive environment where everyone is incredibly passionate about teaching and learning, as well as constantly working to progress in their skills and professional development. I'm looking forward to getting to know my students and being there to help facilitate each individual's relationship with Judaism as they start to move to adulthood."

 

Sheila O'Brien - US Learning Support Specialist          

New US Learning Support Specialist Sheila O'Brien joins EWS after spending a year as a senior behavior therapist with Steps to Progress, which serves children with autism spectrum disorder. Sheila is a proud Hoosier with a bachelor's degree in pre-art therapy (studio art and psychology) from Indiana University.

 

"I came to Emery through a friend, and EWS alum, Stephanie Miller-Kholl. I knew Emery was the right fit after meeting with Rabbi Adelman and Dr. Bishop. You could tell that there was something special about Emery, and if I had to pin-point it, I'd say the enthusiasm was contagious! I can't wait to be included as a member of the EWS community."

 

Aditi Rao - US Technology Integration Specialist         

Aditi Rao will not have much time to sit still this year as she tackles several different roles, including as the US Technology Integration Specialist, the Graphic Design teacher, the 10th Grade Advisor and as the Librarian who will oversee the library's transition into a digital media center.

 

"When I visited for my interview, I was overwhelmed by the sense of community and friendly atmosphere amongst the teachers and students. It made me excited about being a part of the community, and working to integrate more technology into the learning process."

 

Aditi recently moved back to Texas after completing a master's degree in educational technology from John Hopkins University. She also holds a bachelor's degree in English literature from the University of Texas at Austin.

 

Elizabeth Stockdale - US History         

 

EWS will certainly be a change of pace for new History teacher Elizabeth Stockdale as she joins us from The Foxcroft School, an all-girls boarding school in Middleburg, Virginia. Elizabeth is teaching World History II Advanced, World History II and U.S. Politics and Government.

 

"My husband's job was what brought us to Houston, but when I was looking at different independent schools, the culture of EWS was magnetic. The attitudes toward student needs, as well as academic excellence, coincided perfectly with my teaching philosophy. It is an incredible community and I am so excited to be a part of it!"