A Perfect Fit: Welcoming Mrs. Davis to Hillside
By: Jason Seggern, Hillside Head of School
After two decades teaching elementary grades in Western New York, Mrs. Davis' professional journey took a meaningful turn when she relocated to Texas and discovered her calling as a Dyslexia Specialist. "It quickly became my passion and professional calling," she reflects. Though she eventually supported teachers across the district and region, her commitment to working directly with students remained central.
When relocating to Pennsylvania, Mrs. Davis knew what she was looking for: a school deeply committed to supporting students with language-based learning differences. Hillside stood out immediately. "Its mission, philosophy, and focus on structured literacy aligned perfectly with my professional background," she explains. From her first visit, the warm, student-centered environment and Julie Harakal's responsiveness confirmed her instincts.
Moments That Make a Difference:
One moment particularly stands out: during a Club session introducing Zentangle, a student struggled with perfectionism. With encouragement, he learned to embrace the creative process and created a piece he was genuinely proud of. "Witnessing his sense of accomplishment reflects what I experience daily at Hillside—challenging work anchored in positivity and a shared commitment to student success."
Mrs. Davis has been delighted by how quickly meaningful relationships have formed. "Hillside feels like a place where adults and students alike are truly seen, supported, and valued," she notes. Looking ahead, she's eager to watch her students grow in confidence and deepen her involvement in the community through events like the Fall Festival and Trunk or Treat. Mrs. Davis observes that the Hillside community truly functions as a community in every sense, where students form meaningful connections across grade levels and colleagues remain ready to support one another even amid busy schedules.
"Hillside feels like a place where adults and students alike are truly seen, supported, and valued."
Focusing on Growth, Not Scores:
Now several months into her first year, Mrs. Davis couldn't be more certain of her choice. What resonates most deeply is Hillside's focus on genuine growth rather than test scores. "Here, I have the opportunity to understand each student deeply—their strengths, learning profiles, and areas for growth—which allows me to design instruction that supports meaningful progress."
Looking Ahead:
Mrs. Davis is eager to watch her students continue growing in confidence as learners and to deepen her involvement in the broader community. Events like the Fall Festival and Trunk or Treat have shown her how intentionally Hillside brings everyone together. "As the year continues, I look forward to contributing to the vibrant culture that makes Hillside so meaningful."
Right Where She Belongs:
Her journey from rural New York classrooms to Texas literacy leadership has led her exactly where she belongs—to a school where her passion for supporting students with language-based learning differences can flourish, and where every child is known, supported, and believed in.
