Playful, entertaining, and absolutely informative, our Get to Know series allows the personalities of the faculty and staff who make up the Darlington Community to shine.
Steph Bradshaw has served as middle school science teacher and assistant women's coach for Darlington School Soccer Academy since 2014. She holds a B.S. in Exercise Science from the University of North Alabama, where she played collegiate soccer for four years. She also has an M.Ed. in Health and Physical Education from Valdosta State University, where she served as a graduate assistant women's soccer coach. On any given day you'll see Steph's science students doing experiments and digging deep into their studies. She's taught her consumer science students how to shop for groceries and cook and even has the guys in her class learning how to sew. She's pretty amazing with both her middle school students and the Soccer Academy girls, but here are a few things that you didn't know about her.
Where did you grow up?
Born in Germany moved to Sleaford, England and I have spent the last nine years in America. Florence, Al. - Valdosta, Ga. - Rome, Ga.
Tell us a little about your family...
Mum (Jane) and Dad (Paul) live in England, along with my Brother (Chris) and Sister-in-law (Emma), Niece (Taylor) and Nephew (Buddy). Grandparents Ron and Joyce (Dad's parents), and Dennis (Mum's Dad). Small family!!
Why did you choose Darlington?
I first stepped on Darlington’s campus the summer of 2013. I was being assessed for the U.S. Soccer National C License and was on campus for almost a week. The campus was beautiful, the people on campus were super friendly and the facilities were amazing. A year later I saw a posting for a Soccer Academy position, so I applied. I heard back and was also offered a teaching position. Little did I know how much I would enjoy teaching!
Your philosophy on education is…
I love this quote from Nelson Mandela: "Education is the most powerful weapon we can use to change the world."
What makes a good teacher?
Someone who is an advocate for the students, is real with them, and pushes them to do things they don't feel they are capable of.
What music is playing in your car?
John Mayer
What’s your favorite podcast?
TED Talks
Who was your favorite teacher (and why)?
My P.E. teacher Lisa Dolan because she was real, fair and a great advocate for students.
My favorite movie is…
“The Holiday”
What makes a good student?
Someone who is willing to try new things, doesn't give up, is proactive, has common sense and is smart.
My favorite trip was…
When my parents were living over in Hong Kong I was able to visit them a couple of times. Hong Kong is such a diverse place!
If I could travel anywhere it would be…
Somewhere with lots of mountains and places to climb. I like to be tested physically.
E-book or hardcover?
Hardcover
Beach or mountains?
Mountains
My hobby is…
Painting by numbers
Cats or dogs?
Dogs
When I want to crush karaoke, my song is…
“Sweet Serendipity” by Lee DeWyze
My favorite saying is…
If it was easy everyone would do it.
What I like most about Darlington is…
The freedom I have to explore my curriculum as a teacher. The places I am able to visit due to coaching. The friendships that I have made from being a residential faculty. The students I am able to meet from all corners of the globe and learn about their cultures and upbringing.
