We’re excited to introduce a new series this summer to help you get to know the newest members of our Meadow View team. Each week, we’ll be highlighting one of our new employees with a short Q&A. From fun facts to favorite hobbies, this is a chance to learn a little more about the people joining our school family.
Let’s get started!
This week, we are introducing Kindergarten teacher, Mary Ashley Gandy!
What’s your role at Meadow View, and what are you most excited about this year? I will be teaching kindergarten, and I’m looking forward to creating a fun, loving classroom environment where my students are excited to learn. Building strong relationships with each of them and watching them grow both academically and personally is truly what I’m most excited about!
Where are you from, and what brought you to our school? I’m from Birmingham, and I’ve always heard amazing things about Meadow View both from the community and fellow educators. Everyone I have met has been so warm and welcoming. It’s clear that the staff truly supports one another and cares deeply about their students. I was drawn to Alabaster City Schools because of its strong reputation, and I knew it would be a wonderful place to grow as a teacher. I feel so thankful and excited to begin my career in such a supportive and student-centered environment!
How long have you been in education, and what inspired you to become a teacher/staff member? This is actually my very first year! I just graduated from Auburn, and I couldn’t be more excited to officially step into the classroom. Teaching has been something I’ve dreamed about since I was little; I used to play “teacher” all the time growing up. Over the years, I’ve been blessed with incredible teachers who made a lasting impact on my life, and they truly inspired me to follow this path. My hope is to be that same kind of teacher for my students, someone who encourages them, believes in them, and helps them grow in every way.
What’s your favorite subject or part of the school day, and why? I’ve always loved math! I enjoy helping students build confidence as they explore numbers, patterns, and problem-solving in fun, hands-on ways. It’s so rewarding to see that lightbulb moment when something clicks, especially in kindergarten when so much growth happens.
Do you have a favorite teaching memory or moment that stands out to you? One of my favorite memories so far is from student teaching. Getting to know my students, building those relationships, and watching them grow each day was such a special experience. It confirmed for me that I’m exactly where I’m meant to be. Seeing their excitement for learning and knowing I played a part in that was so rewarding.
What do you like to do when you’re not at school? Outside of school, I love spending time with my family, especially my sweet 1-year-old nephew! Watching him grow and getting to play with him is one of my favorite things. Family time is really special to me, and I try to soak up every moment with them.
What’s something your students or coworkers might be surprised to learn about you? I think people might be surprised to learn that I’m a huge kid at heart! I love all things playful and creative, which is probably why I love teaching kindergarten so much. Whether it’s singing silly songs, getting into character during story time, or joining in on games, I’m always up for making learning fun!
Do you have a favorite children’s book or quote about learning? One of my favorite children’s books is Oh, the Places You’ll Go! by Dr. Seuss. I love how it inspires children to embrace new adventures, face challenges with courage, and believe in themselves. It’s such a positive and uplifting message that I hope to share with my students every day!
What’s one goal you have for your first year at Meadow View? My main goal this year is to create a nurturing and supportive classroom where every student feels safe, valued, and excited to learn. I want to build strong relationships with my students and their families, so we can work together to help each child grow both academically and personally.
What makes you feel most encouraged or supported at work? I feel most supported when there’s a positive and collaborative environment where everyone lifts each other up. Simple things like encouragement from coworkers, celebrating small wins, and knowing that we’re all working toward the same goal, helping our students succeed, make a big difference in staying motivated and confident.