Ms. Gorman is a beloved English teacher at Braintree High School, known for her kindness, enthusiasm, and dedication to her students. She grew up in the same community she now teaches in, making her connection to the school and its students even more special.
Her passion for education started at Archbishop Williams High School, and led her to Harvard University, where she excelled academically and graduated at the top of her class. However, she didn’t always want to be a teacher.
“I went to college with a government degree, after that I worked in a marketing firm and made a lot of money but didn’t like my job at all.”
After a year of working at the firm, she decided she needed a break. Her and some of her closest friends packed their bags and went on the trip of a lifetime to Australia.
“We were going to travel because we never got to study abroad while in college. So, we all individually got jobs and a working and travel visa.”
She loved her time in Australia. She was able to travel to different countries like Thailand and New Zealand.
“I mean it is the most beautiful place. It’s so gorgeous. It was just so great to travel the world and see new things and experience new cultures.”
After heading back home to the states, she was forced to start thinking about a permanent career that she would also enjoy. Both of her parents were teachers, so naturally she had to give it a try.
“I came home, I was twenty-four and living at home with my parents who were both teachers, so they encouraged me to try substituting. I started subbing and I really liked it. So, I decided I would take the MTEL (Massachusetts Teachers Education License).”
She then went to school to get her Master’s in Education in order to become a teacher. Even though she didn’t go to college to become a teacher, she was able to use some skills and knowledge that she learned from Harvard to make her a teacher that students feel connected to and interested in.
“I did take some child and adolescent and adult psychology classes that I think are really important as far as how the human brain learns, it shows the different learning styles and how people deal with different things that they are going through. I think it’s important to understand the basic psychology of learning.”
Now, she brings that same love for learning into her own classroom, inspiring students with her knowledge of English and her engaging teaching style.
Beyond the classroom, Ms. Gorman is an active and valued member of the Braintree community. Ms. Gorman is the assistant coach for the girls Varsity Volleyball team and one of Braintree Softball’s biggest fans.
“I think it’s really amazing to see the kids outside of school, in a different capacity than the classroom. I love being able to see students play the sport or do the activity that they are really passionate about outside of the classroom. I also think it’s really awesome to let them see that I’m not just their teacher.”
One of the most remarkable things about Ms. Gorman is her warm and welcoming personality. She makes a point to talk to everyone; whether it’s students or other teachers, Ms. Gorman is able to create a supportive and inclusive environment wherever she goes.
She believes that being involved in student’s lives beyond the classroom is crucial to building a good bond with the student.
“Then they feel like they are more comfortable with you, you become more approachable and they end up coming to you for issues, just to chat or even if there is a problem. It’s really nice to know the students so you make more of a well rounded relationship with the teacher.”
Her students appreciate her approachable nature, knowing they can always turn to her for advice, encouragement, or just a friendly conversation. Whether she’s teaching, cheering on the volleyball team, or chatting with students in the hallway, Ms. Gorman embodies the spirit of Braintree High.
