Dear 10th Grade Students and Families,

As most of you are aware, I am expecting a baby this month and will be taking my maternity leave starting on Monday, April 7th. I have been fortunate to spend the last two months teaching your students English, and I have truly enjoyed myself beyond expectation. I have been pleasantly reminded that we have a remarkable set of 10th graders, each with his or her unique strengths and contributions. 

I am excited to share with you all that we have hired a high-performing and experienced 10th grade English teacher! We feel very fortunate to have Morgan Derby as a part of our team. I am confident that her experience, warmth, and high-expectations will be well-received by our students. I've included a letter of introduction from her so that you can learn a bit about her.

Sincerely,

Lia Pinelli

Summit Public Schools: Rainier

Dear Parents,

My name is Morgan Derby, and I wanted to introduce myself as the new 10th grade English teacher at Summit Rainier. I am very excited to be joining the Summit team, and I've enjoyed meeting and beginning to work with your students this week. I look forward to working with you in the coming months to ensure their success and preparation for next year and beyond.

A bit about me:

I have a dual B.A. in English and International Studies, and I anticipate receiving my Master of Education degree in May. While working to complete my thesis, I have spent the last few months supporting an after-school program in Oakland.

Altogether, I have 6+ years of experience working in a variety of educational settings and roles. I am a certified English teacher, and have spent the last three years teaching the rigorous IB English curriculum at a public charter school that was very similar to Summit in its philosophy and core values.

Throughout my tenure as a teacher, I have specialized in curriculum design, implementation, and assessment. I have developed a deep interest in educational policy and leadership. In the classroom, I consistently leverage studies in neuroscience and psychology to support students' overall development and well-being, and I am eager to serve as a role model and mentor for Summit youth.

I firmly believe in the ability of all students to rise to high expectations. I am therefore committed to meeting Summit students' varied needs and interests by maintaining a safe and supportive learning environment in which they can thrive.

I want to thank you for your understanding and collaboration as we enter this sensitive, exciting transition. There is a lot to do and a lot to learn.

I hope that you will feel free to connect with me via email at mderby@summitsanjose.org if you have any questions, concerns, or triumphs to celebrate in the coming months.

Regards,

Ms. Morgan Derby 

Summit Public Schools: Rainier