As our 2025-2026 school year is slowly coming to a close, there is no better time to get to know people who make Starr’s Mill such a great place to learn. This month, we are starting a new spotlight series including all the departments at Starr’s Mill. Those departments include: Math, English, Physical Education, Exceptional Children Services, History, World Language, Fine Arts, CTAE, and Science.
To give students and staff an insightful look, we asked each department a question that would reveal more about their personality. Their responses offer insight into their humor, values, and teaching styles, and all the small details that make up each department.
With so many new employees joining the Starr’s Mill staff this year, this spotlight series is a perfect opportunity to get to know all the staff. It is a perfect way for everyone to connect. This week’s department is exceptional children’s services.
Dr. Luke Hearn, department chair
"I'd either be the spoiled Doodle of a retired and wealthy couple or a raccoon," Dr. Hearn said. "[Raccoons] are very mysterious yet resourceful and can be cute but also fiercely protective, if the need arises."
12 years of teaching experience
Brandon Cerezola
"I would be a bird, so I could see the world from all different perspectives, close and far," Cerezola said.
2 years of teaching experience at Starr's Mill
Jason Flowers
"A big grizzly bear," Flowers said. "I love the outdoors and would like to live in places that are remote and less populated. Plus, I might meet bigfoot, so that would be a bonus."
24 years of teaching experience
Shannon Gagliano
"I would be a dolphin," Gagliano said. "They always seem to be happy and like to be social."
25 years of teaching experience
Laura Harbin
"If I could be any animal, I would be a raven (which is also the title of my favorite poem by my favorite author)," Harbin said. "Ravens are known for their intelligence, adaptability, and strong communication skills. They are highly observant and able to problem-solve in complex environments, which reflects how I approach my role as a high school teacher for students with autism and other unique learning needs... The raven represents curiosity, intelligence, and the ability to thrive in diverse environments — qualities that closely align with how I support my students and advocate for their success."
20 years of teaching experience
Mia Kendrick
"If I could be any animal I would be a Labrador retriever dog," Kendrick said. "T he reason is because labs are sweet, loving, loyal, and fun. They are always ready for an adventure. They love their families and playing with children. A labrador's family usually LOVES them and will take good care of them."
20 years of teaching experience
Mary Lehman
" I'd be a golden retriever," Lehman said. "I show up enthusiastic every day. I'm endlessly patient (or at least up to a high threshold). I thrive on structure. I genuinely want everyone to succeed. I think I'm pretty good at managing a little chaos, whether that is in a classroom, with a lacrosse team, or in my own household. At the end of the day, I still wag my tail and feel grateful for everything."
24 years of teaching experience
Sancia Munroe
"If I could be an animal I would be a cat," Munroe said. "Sweet, dependable, loyal, but fierce."
10 years of teaching experience
Rosann Patterson
"If I could choose, I’d be an eagle or a hawk, soaring high above the earth," Patterson said. "I want to feel that absolute freedom—unbound by the obstacles that typically hold me back. There is something fascinating about being a bird of prey. They aren't just beautiful, they are the dominant masters of the sky."
3 years of teaching experience at Starr's Mill
Alison Tumblin
"I have no clue!," Tumblin said.
11 years of teaching experience
Kendra Woods
"I would be a lioness because of the protective yet compassionate nature of the lioness in protecting her family and community," Woods said.
30 years of teaching experience
Juliana Wright
"I would choose to be a Pekingese poodle mix," Wright said. "Dogs are loyal, dependable, and love unconditionally. They are willing to serve and are great companions. No matter the circumstances, dogs embrace life and enjoy every moment to its fullest."
29 years of teaching experience
Sharon Wright
"I chose the black panther, because it symbolizes quiet power, independence, and resilience," Wright said. "It moves with purpose, protects what matters, and doesn’t need to be loud to be strong. These qualities reflect who I am and how I show up in the world."
30 years of teaching experience
