Kathy Brennan-Haug
Middle School English Teacher - who just "does it all!"
Undergraduate: Bachelor of Arts, English Education, University of Louisiana - Lafayette (Formerly University of Southwestern Louisiana) - chosen because they offered me a scholarship for my freshman year, and I was determined to pay my own way through college. (Which I did.)
Graduate: Master of Business Administration, Loyola University. Goal was to combine education with business and to become a corporate or non-profit trainer. I did this on a consulting basis for several years, but when all three children were young and in school, I decided to return to the world of education.
What I love about teaching: I truly love interacting with the kids. I love their open nature and the wonderful conversations we have about literature and in our advisory discussions. I love helping them to discover their own thoughts and their own ideas about who they are by having them read, reflect, question, and discuss. I get really excited (and sometimes loud) when they share an insight or idea that is new and totally their own.
What do I enjoy about CD: Country Day lets me do the above. I love that we do not have to follow a prescribed curriculum and that we are encouraged to treat each student as an individual. I also love that I get to help kids in ways that feel natural and personal. I love our focus on community.
The "other profession" for me would be returning to the training and development field, specifically training in the social-emotional arena or facilitating retreats and organizational development sessions for organizations. One part of training that I like is that no grading is required. (However, my fantasy job would be singing country or rock-n-roll in front of live audiences.)
I'm not sure how interesting this is, but I coordinate quite a bit of what goes on at my chapel. (I am one of the two leaders, and my role is to make sure the work happens. It's hard to explain.) We are an intentional faith community, which means we do not have a pastor. Instead, we work cooperatively to get everything done. It's a very special and unique Catholic community that involves approximately half of the participants in creating liturgy and caring for each other.
I never compete for awards, and I do not participate in any type of organization that gives awards. However, I was given the Order of St. Louis by the archbishop a few years ago for the above service.
Hmmm. If I tell you a secret about myself, it won't be a secret anymore.
If I could speak a foreign language, it would be Italian. I'm half Italian, and I regret that my grandmother did not speak Italian with my siblings and me.
Can I just travel the world? While I'm dreaming, do I have to limit myself? I have not traveled a lot, so my list is long. First, Italy and Ireland, the home of my ancestors. Secondly, and quickly before it changes too much, Cuba. I'm curious. Third, Finland. I'm very curious about their education system. (I will stop here.)
I admire Mother Theresa. Cliché as it may sound, her service to those who have the least is inspiring and beautiful to me. And the fact that she gathered others around her to do that as well is powerful. The gift and ability to do for others without expectation of a return is a gift I hope to cultivate.
300 Park Road, Metairie, LA 70005 (504) 837-5204
Established in 1929, Metairie Park Country Day School is a coed private school for New Orleans area students in early childhood through Grade 12. From the elementary grades through upper school, the care and cultivation of each child comes to life in our exciting academic program, creative arts, and competitive athletic offerings.
Country Day accepts qualified students without regard to race, color, disability, gender, sexual orientation, religion, national or ethnic origin.
