Kelly Heather, Art Teacher
What is your favorite thing about BYDS?
My favorite thing about BYDS so far is being part of a larger community. I’ve also really enjoyed getting to introduce new artists and techniques to all of my students.
If you had to live in a either a library or a zoo for the rest of your life, which would you choose and why?
I would definitely choose to live in a zoo! Some of my favorite hobbies are camping and hiking; Really, I just love to be outdoors and in nature. I also love animals so it would be fun to experience being in their habitats. It’s not really in my personality to stay still or quiet for long periods of time, so being in a library for the rest of my life would be very difficult.
Where did you go to school and what attracted you to the education field?
While my mom wasn’t a school teacher, she was my first art teacher. She developed my love for art at a very young age that’s still growing today. After graduating with a BFA in Studio Art and a minor in Art History from Sam Houston State University, I didn’t set out to be an art teacher. I started working in the art field at a bronze foundry but landed in an educational setting when I moved to Houston. I fell in love with teaching and have never looked back. 10 years later, I still get joy from watching kids learn and express themselves through art.
What is your favorite treat?
Hands down popcorn and gummy bears; but never together.
Hi there! I’m Raen Casseday, CDO Assistant Teacher.
What are your hobbies/interests (other than making BYDS great)?
A few things I love to do are photography, hanging out with my family, and play video games. I enjoy things I can sit and focus on.
What talent would you most like to have?
I really wish I could draw and easily learn new languages.
Who is your favorite sports team?
Born and raised in Houston my favorite team is of course the Rockets with Astros coming in a close second.
Favorite character from children’s literature?
My favorite character from children’s literature is Winne the Pooh. He’s so loving and caring to everyone around him and just loves to eat sweets. Just like me!
Samantha Golding, Kindergarten Teacher
How would you describe your job?
My job is to support the academic, social and emotional development of my students as well as create a strong and open partnership with our families. I believe it is important to provide children with the opportunity to engage in learning life skills and BYDS is an extraordinary environment that understands and allows this growth to occur.
What are you most proud of this year regarding your work at BYDS?
We started our year together with distance learning in August and then transitioned to on-campus learning in September. I have been immensely proud of my kindergarten students’ ability to adapt to their changing environment and the different procedures we have put in place. I worked hard to provide as much consistency and routine as possible in our daily schedule.
What superhero talent would you most like to have?
I would love to have the ability to read minds! Children occasionally have a difficult time trying to find the words to match how they are feeling or explain situations. Being able to read their minds would provide me with insight into how they are feeling and help me better understand their emotions.
What is your favorite meal? (to eat, that is, not cook)
I love a good salad but could always go for a meal at Chick-fil-a!
