MRS. DANIA PAUL

Lower School Grade 3

Following the footsteps of her mother-in-law, Mrs. Dolly Paul, who taught Lower School science, Mrs. Paul joined the SA faculty in 1992. She grew up in Weirton, WV, and married Joe Paul ’82. Her brotherin-law, Greg ’88, sons, Willie ’16 and Jackson ’19, and nieces, Hilary ’15 and Maggie ’19, are all SA grads as well. As a teacher, she hopes to inspire, encourage, and instill a love of learning in her students.

Sewickley Academy is a special community. Our Lower School faculty is a tight knit group and we appreciate everyone’s strengths. This is one of the reasons why I love teaching here.”

What is it about Sewickley Academy that keeps you coming back?

Sewickley Academy is a special community. Our Lower School faculty is a tight knit group, and we appreciate everyone’s strengths. This is one of the reasons why I love teaching here. Another reason is our supportive community. Our administration and families go out their way to help make this community stronger.

Where is your favorite location on campus?

My favorite place on campus is the Marion Hutchins Library in the Lower School. When I visit the library with my students, they enjoy selecting books and sharing their favorites with friends. Their excitement for reading a beloved series or author is palpable. Many times I will visit the library to find another read-aloud book or browse through the teacher resources, and I find that the time escapes me because it is such a magical place. Our librarians do a fantastic job of making the library a safe space where our students are represented in the books they choose. It is such a welcoming environment.

Why did you choose to be a teacher?

I decided I wanted to become a teacher late in college. I will never forget the day I went home and told my parents that I wanted to pursue a career in teaching. My father said, “Finally, one of my children will follow the tradition in our family.” My paternal grandmother and aunt were both elementary teachers.

What is your favorite SA story or memory?

The best thing that happened to me while at SA was being able to give my sons, Willie and Jackson, their diplomas at graduation. Throughout the years, they were greatly impacted by their teachers in some way. When handing them their diplomas, I was so grateful to my colleagues for their dedication to my sons as well as all of the other students.

Do you collect anything?

I really don’t collect anything, but over the years, I have enjoyed receiving Christmas ornaments from my students. When I decorate my tree every year, I have fond memories of each child. From the seashell snowman with a purple hat and scarf, to a holiday-adorned Minnie Mouse, I can envision each student’s face. It’s definitely a trip down memory lane for me every time I reminisce about a student.