On this episode, we Build with Mary-Kathryn Connor!

Mary-Kathryn Connor is the Director of Hayes Barton United Methodist Preschool. She is a native of Goldsboro, NC and holds a Bachelor's degree in Family and Consumer Sciences from Meredith College and a Master's degree in Early Childhood Intervention and Family Support from UNC-Chapel Hill. She has her B-K, K-6, and 7-12 teaching licenses. She has a vast resume of experiences having been a teacher, department chair, and adjunct instructor at Moore Square Magnet Middle School, Needham B. Broughton High School and Meredith College. Through her skillful leadership, Mary-Kathryn brought about instrumental change and success not only in programming but also in student achievement and staff support. The Wake County Public School System recognized her work by naming her Wake County’s Diane Kent Parker First Year Teacher of the Year, Broughton High School Teacher of the Year, Wake County Teacher of the Year Finalist, WRAL Teacher of the Week, WCPSS Employee Excellence Award recipient, and the Richard M. Jewell Teaching Excellence Award.

This was such a fun conversation. We discuss so much in this episode, beginning with her journey through early childhood education (and some fun stories!). We discuss how she has surrounded herself with amazing talent and what advice she has for young families and those about to enter the real world. As Director of the Preschool, Mary-Kathryn has been surrounded by 150+ children for the last 5 years and I've seen firsthand how she has transformed an environment that has positively impacted the lives of so many, including my children. I want others to know her journey, what she's learned and be inspired to grow!

Enjoy!

Books Recommended:

The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer

The Lives We Actually Have by Kate Bowler and Jessica Richie