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With record high enrollment this school year, Valley Forge Elementary needed to hire an additional School Counselor. Mrs. Wills didn't need to look far to find former VFES student, Meredith McGarrigle to help support the growing student body. We asked Ms. McGarrigle to share a little information about herself, so that the parents and students at VFES could get to know her better. This is what she had to say.......
*Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Malvern, PA. I went to New Eagle Elementary but moved in 1st grade and switched to Valley Forge Elementary. Mrs. Wills was actually my 2nd grade teacher!!
*What college did you attend?
I went to Villanova University where I received a degree in Communications with a specialization in Interpersonal Communications and a minor in Psychology. I remained at Villanova to complete my Masters Degree in School Counseling and received my certification for grades K-12.
*Please tell us about your family?
I have 6 people in my family which includes my parents, my two older sisters and one brother. I am a twin so my brother is older than me by only 1 minute! Our family just expanded as my oldest sister had a baby boy so I am finally an aunt!
*What is your favorite color?
My favorite color is yellow, it is the color of my room!
*What are some of your hobbies outside of school?
Outside of school I like to run and do yoga. In addition I spend a lot of time at Villanova University because I coach the cheerleaders. So if you are ever at a football or basketball game I am probably there!!
*How long have you been teaching? Did you work somewhere else prior to becoming part of the VFE Staff?
This is my first year as a school counselor. I was at Garnet Valley High School before becoming a part of the VFE Staff but even before that I was an intern at VFE and Conestoga High School.
*Do you have a favorite vacation destination? If so, where?
I LOVE Cancun, Mexico. I visited there last spring break with my family and we had a great time trying new things like kayaking, sailing, yoga on the beach, beach volleyball, and just relaxing!! We even visited the Mayan Ruins which was quite an adventure!
Being an educator can be both a fulfilling and challenging role.
*What inspired you to become a teacher?
My amazing school counselors inspired me to become a school counselor. As a grew up I realized I loved working with kids and helping others so becoming a school counselor is the perfect fit!
*Think back to when you were an elementary student, what was your favorite part of school or a special memory you would like to share?
Looking back the most memorable times of elementary school were the BIG events where the whole school was involved like Scary Gym or the Spring Fair. I remember looking forward to those activities all year and it is nice to see that those traditions are still happening at VFE!
With VFES' theme of Super Heroes in mind,
*What is your Super Power?
My super power is flexibility! I work between VFE and Devon Elementary schools so being flexible is essential to my day. Being able to adapt and switch gears is important to meet the needs of the students.
Finally, we would like to appeal to your humorous side.
*If you were a fruit or vegetable, which one would you be and why?
I would be a banana because I have a soft center but thick skin! Bananas also are bunched together and since I am a people person I would like to hang with others.
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