Ms. Neilson

My educational/professional background:
I have a BFA in scientific and medical illustration and a master’s degree in human development, as well as K–8 teaching certification. I have more than 17 years of teaching experience, including kindergarten, grades 1, 3, and 5, and grades 6–8 social studies. I have worked with gifted and highly gifted students, as well as students with other neuro-atypical profiles. I also worked in the education department at the Norton Simon Museum, where I wrote lectures and gave tours.

I choose to teach at Clairbourn because:
I believe in its mission and strong academic curriculum. I value the individualized support we are able to give each student because of the smaller class sizes.

My favorite Clairbourn tradition is:
Clairbourn Carnival is my favorite tradition, although there are many to choose from!

What brings me joy is:
Watching my students’ happy faces when they are learning history through project-based learning brings me joy. In addition, I love being outside and spending time with my family and friends.