TOWAMENCIN- A former knight herself, Ms. Alexandra Haeusser’s strong love for North Penn has lead her back to the place where it all began for her. With experience from working in other school districts to being an alumna herself, the American Literature teacher hopes to bring a new energy to her students and have an impact that will make her unforgettable.

When did you know that you wanted to be a teacher, and why?

“It was probably my senior year, in my AP Lit class with Mr. Gillespie. Up until then, I was very back and forth when applying with my colleges. I either wanted to be a Marine Science major, or I would go into Secondary Education for English. I always knew that I would enjoy teaching because of the experience in my AP Lit class; the different types of text that we were reading, discussions that we had, it gave me the idea that I could see myself doing this,” shared Haeusser.

What made you decide to go into public education?

“My whole life has been public education, so private school never entered the conversation. I always felt that I wanted to be the teacher that I had as a student, so it felt like the most natural path. I wanted to give back to the system that helped me become successful,” said Haeusser.

What was your college experience like? Did you ever have any moments where you wanted to change your major, or were you always sure about going into English?

“I went to Penn State Schreyer Honors College and it was amazing, far better than I had predicted it to ever be, because it allowed for a small campus feel and a very academic and rigorous community. I was surrounded by other students who had their minds in focus and were very serious about their studies, and wanted to succeed while also having fun. I also had all the access to the alumni network, which definitely got me experience with internships. I had an internship at a non-profit organization that worked with disadvantaged youth the summer of my freshman year. I don’t know if I would have gotten that opportunity if I hadn’t been in the Honors college. Once I got to college I never doubted my major. Even though I always had a passion for marine science, which stems from my love of dolphins, I also always had a passion for working with children. I think once I started my classes, I never had any doubts or regrets,” she shared.

Were there any teachers at North Penn that heavily influenced you?

“The better question would be which ones have not influenced me! I feel that all the teachers at North Penn influence you in some way, even if they were just an English teacher. I feel that my English teachers had a special significance for me. I had Mr. Brumbaugh for history, and he’s become a close family friend now. Mr. Mostert, who I had for AP World back when it was a 10th grade class, has been really supportive since I’ve started here. I don’t want to name call, because I feel I’ll leave someone out. I feel that all of my teachers have been influential and important. I didn’t have any bad teachers!” explained Haeusser.

At the other schools that you have taught at, what classes did you teach?

“I taught at CB West and Lenape Middle School. My first job at CB West, I taught 11th grade English, which focused on rhetoric, so I taught that and language. Since Central Bucks doesn’t have the same tracking we do, I taught what was considered 5.0 level here and advanced classes, which is our honors. When I taught the middle school, I taught 7th grade, which is a completely different experience than at the high school. There, I just taught reading and writing,” said Hauesser.

What differences have you noted between North Penn and the other schools you taught at?

“The differences aren’t as important as the similarities. What’s the same are the students. The students in both districts have goals, have dreams, and they just want someone who cares about them, is invested in their future and helping them succeed, and who can listen to their problems, hopes and fears. That’s what stayed consistent, and that’s the best part of the job anyway,” explained Hauesser.

How have those differences affected your teaching styles?

“When at Central Bucks, I was mainly a middle school teacher, and now I’m a high school teacher, so that has definitely been something that I fought for and I’m very proud to be where I’m at. While I look back fondly on my time with the middle school students, I’ve always known that high school is where I wanted to be. I enjoy working with students who are right on the cusp of their futures and being able to be that last guide, or that last voice before they go off into the great unknown, is what’s really special and powerful to me,” said Hauesser.

What do you like to do outside of work?

“I have a 2 year old German Shepherd, Mia, so I spend a lot of my time with her. I also like to hang out with my friends, and I love to travel. I spent a semester abroad in Italy, and so that put the travel bug in me early on. I love going to see friends in Boston or Washington, D.C., and I’m hoping to get outside of the country again very shortly,” shared Hauesser.

Do you have any special talents or unique interests?

“No, I wish I did! Although I am not a part of theatre, I am a huge fan of all of the arts: dance, Broadway, musical theatre. I have no talent in that regard but I think that’s why I enjoy watching others perform so much. Concerts are a big hobby and passion of mine. I’m a huge fan of the British royal family as well, really all things British in general,” said Hauesser.

What imprint do you hope to have here at North Penn?

“I just hope that students look back and remember me as a teacher who was kind, engaging, and opened up their mind to the power and the beauty of language and the influence a book can have on your life,” shared Hauesser.