Meet the VP

Kelly Schaaf, Assistant Principal
Question:
What is your background/previous school?
Answer:
I began a life of working with children as a camp counselor and mentor during my college years. My love of kids, literature, and learning soon manifested in my pursuit of becoming an educator. I began teaching High School in California (where I grew up) and became a Middle School teacher when I relocated to Philadelphia about seventeen years ago. I started at Belmont Charter School and then moved to Meredith Elementary. During these years I finished my graduate studies at the University of Pennsylvania’s Graduate School of Education. I then took a brief sabbatical from classroom teaching and pursued some personal interests. After about four years, I returned to teach at Overbrook Elementary School. Then, in my second year, I returned to PENN (Go Quakers!) and earned my Certificate of Educational Leadership. Last year, I was the Assistant Principal of Warren G. Middle School, and now here I am!
Question:
What excites you about SLA?
Answer:
SLA has been the learning community I have always considered the ideal. While being the eighth-grade advisory teacher at Meredith, I got to know SLA and Chris well. I quickly understood the beliefs that drove student instruction, teacher pedagogy, and SLA culture. Over the years, I have watched my students thrive in this community. SLA’s commitment and passion to provide a nurturing, caring, and exceptional education have transformed my practice. I am honored to serve here with this inspirational team.
Question:
Favorite beach read of the summer?
Answer:
Deacon King Kong, by James McBride
Question:
What’s your favorite ice cream flavor?
Answer:
Ben and Jerry’s – Phish Food
Question:
Do you play sports? Hobbies?
Answer:
Sport to play – Soccer
Sports to watch – Soccer and Tennis
Hobbies: Camping, Hiking, Writing, and Photography