Megan Flaherty, Lead Teacher

I have been teaching at Running River for 10 years, as a full time teacher for every grade level, and after my children were born, as a part time teacher in science, math and language arts. This year I will return to being the lead teacher for the 2nd-8th grade learning pod.

I have a fascination with the interconnectedness of the earth and the stories behind each plant, each animal. I have a similar fascination with how children learn and how their state of mind and their emotions, affect their learning. A long time educator, both inside the classroom and outside, I am continually questioning my role and how to best work with each child.

I believe that real learning occurs when it arises from authentic experiences that have meaning for the child. Children learn through various means and show their learning in various ways. Learning is a cooperative effort between the child and the teacher. My job as a teacher is to recognize the potential in each child and facilitate their learning process and guide them in taking ownership of their own learning.

Education

• Spring 1999 – University of Colorado. M.A. & teacher certification – Elementary Education
• Spring 1989 – Colby College, ME. B.A. Department of Human Development – Concentration: Philosophy/Religion
• Fall 1987 – Semester in Sri Lanka. Foreign study program of Buddhism, Sri Lankan culture and language
• Fall 1986 – National Outdoor Leadership School – Semester in the Rockies Mountaineering, caving, rock climbing, winter camping and wilderness first aid

Professional Experience

Teacher

• Hodgkins Middle School, Westminster, CO
• Eighth Grade Language Arts
• Fall 1999,­ Spring 2001

Administrator & Trip leader

• Longacre Expeditions, Tin Cup, CO
• Helped run base camp and led trips for youth ages 13-19 in outdoor skills including mountaineering, rock climbing, backpacking and interpersonal communication skills.
• Summers 1999, 2000

Student Teacher

• Skyline Vista, Westminster, CO
• Second grade classroom.
• Fall 1998

Practicum Student

• Washington Bilingual, Boulder, COTitle 1 and art.Fall 1997
• Rocky Mtn. Elementary, Longmont, COFirst grade.Fall 1997
• Fairview Elementary, Westminster, COSecond grade and special education.Spring 1998

Teacher

Alaya Preschool & Kindergarten, Boulder, CO

Fall 1992-Spring 1997, Summer 1998

• Co-teacher in contemplative preschool & Kindergarten for children ages 3-6.
• Co-created off-site Kindergarten program for 1996-1997 school year. Tipi camp teacher for 1st – 3rd grades in summer 1998.

Administrative Part and Staff

Longacre Farm, Newport, PA

Summers 1991-1997

• Part of Administrative team that planned day to day logistics and programming for summer program on organic farm with youths ages 11-17.
• Designed and led mentor program. Facilitated group process workshops for 85 people for summers 1996 & 97.

Instructor

Horizons for Youth Environmental Education Center, Sharon, MA

Developed and taught environmental classes and activities for grades 1-12 in residential setting.

Fall 1990 – Spring 1991

Trip Director & Supervisor of Specialty Programs

Camp River Ranch, Carnation, WA

Supervised waterfront and horseback riding programs. Responsible for planning, logistics and training for all camp trips. Part of administrative team.

Summer 1990

Other Experience

• Yoga Teacher Training Program ~ Crete, Greece, Fall 1994
• Co-created alternative baked goods company
• Varsity Track & Cross Country ~ Colby College
• Book artist
• Graduate classes in Counseling Psychology ~ Naropa Institute, Boulder, CO
• Certified Wilderness First Responder