Judy Browne has been the Head of Shelton's Upper School for more than a decade now. Next year, she will be stepping down from this position to return to teaching Ethics to freshmen. We interviewed her for more information on what got her to be where she is today...
When did you become the head of the Upper School?
I came to Shelton in the summer of 1997, before the high school even existed. They decided to expand the high school beyond 9th grade that year.
What made you want to become the Head of Upper School?
I never would have guessed I would have become an administrator. It just happened. I used to work with the Dean of Students at SMU, worked at Hockaday, and eventually became an Assistant Principal at Bishop Lynch. When Shelton offered me the opportunity of being their Head of Upper School, I accepted because I have always loved Shelton students and their parents, as well as the opportunity to touch the lives of so many people.
What has been your favorite part of the job?
There are many things that I have enjoyed over the years, but what I have enjoyed the most is working with kids and helping them to better understand themselves and their learning differences. I have loved seeing the growth and successes of our kids, as well as being able to help them through the difficult times.
What is the most valuable thing that you have learned while working at Shelton?
Simple, healthy, positive interactions make a difference in the lives of others.
What made you want to step down and return to teaching?
Well, I got my first high school job forty years ago this year. I'm ready for a new chapter in my life, and want to make my life more balanced, as well as the opportunity to spend time with my three grandchildren.
Are you looking forward to teaching Ethics?
Many students don't know this, but I established the Ethics program at Shelton. Alex Schilpp, Mandy Dockweiler, and I all used to teach Ethics in the early days. Jerry Smith still teaches Ethics. Later, we added Sam Crabtree, Christine Ganzarz, and of course, Zac Ladd (who I trained) did a perfect job of filling my shoes. The Ethics program is very dear to my heart. I also can't wait to be an advisor, and help my kids thrive to their full potential.
What are some of your favorite memories at Shelton so far?
They are far too numerous to even begin listing.
Is there any advice you would like to leave for the administration?
No, no advice is needed.
And finally, what will you miss most about being an administrator?
This is going to sound funny, but what I will miss the most will most likely be the admission intakes. What I love so much about the admission intakes is that they are where I am able to sit with a family who is lost, afraid, full of questions, and searching desperately for answers, and take away their fear and replace it with hope. Many kids and their parents don't have a very full understanding of learning differences. Some kids feel as if they are not intelligent, or even a disappointment to their parents. I enjoy, more than anything, being able to tell them that this is far from the truth, and encouraging them to believe and to know that they are smart, and that they can accomplish anything that their heart desires.