Transition to SPED an opportunity for Anchorage teacher to serve students

For many teachers, the intrinsic motivation to help students grow and succeed is what steers them to a career in education. For adventure seekers, there’s no where better to live than Alaska. When those two qualities manifest in one person, the result is a teacher like Hannah Morris.

Morris is originally from Georgia. After 13 years teaching 3^rd grade at a private school in Anchorage, she recently completed her first year as a special education teacher at Northwood Elementary in the Anchorage School District.

“My family travelled and moved around often when I was a child. While I enjoyed the experience that came with seeing so many new places, I was ready to plant roots. As a college student from the southeast, Alaska’s wild beauty and adventure drew me. I knew this would be the place I’d call home,” Morris said. “In my time as a private school teacher, I was able to work with my students outside of the classroom through sports, service projects, and mission trips. Watching students I’ve taught grow into young adults was extremely rewarding and also gave me an opportunity to become a part of the lives, community, and family that Alaskans embrace so naturally. I love the cultural diversity and uniqueness of Alaska and how that is revealed in the classroom. It has broadened my understanding of the uniqueness of humanity and instilled in me a patience and compassion for others.”

Outside of the classroom, Morris plays hockey in several community leagues, is active in her church and love to hike, camp, kayak, fish and trail run.

While the last school year brought changes for all educators, for Morris is also brought a new school and a new specialty.

“As I step into the realm of special education, I am eager for the ways this position will allow me to serve those most in need; to be heard, to be seen, to be known,” Morris said.