Upper School

Years at NGFS: 12

Education: B.S., University of North Carolina at Charlotte; M.Ed., University of North Carolina at Greensboro; Graduate Instructional Technology Certificate, East Carolina University

After many years as New Garden’s Technology Facilitator, Lisa begins the 2017-18 school year as the Upper School Dean. Lisa is looking forward to her new position and will never forget why she loves NGFS, “When I started working at New Garden, I knew that I had found a home — a home where students are valued, teachers are valued, and both are honored equally. I am passionate about helping students and staff use technology in ethical and creative ways to process, problem-solve, and communicate with one another and the broader community, when appropriate. As I work with students and teachers, I am reminded that teaching and learning is a promise — a promise that whatever the person before me holds dear, they can accomplish.”

In her free time, Lisa enjoys reading, educating herself about technology, and spending time with her husband, John, her daughter, Lauren, and her dog, Max.

Years at NGFS: 4

Education: B.A. in Spanish and Linguistics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; M.A. in Spanish and Linguistics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

"This year I am excited about working for the students in Upper School. In my role of Dean for Students I am tasked with overseeing the well-being of every individual in our upper school. Their needs are at the center of everything I do. I have the unique privilege to work with a phenomenal group of teachers, administration, and young adults in our student body to create the best possible high school experience for our students. This is what drives me and this is what makes my heart sing." 

Although this will be Blair’s fourth year as an Upper School Spanish Teacher, it will be her first as the Upper School Dean for Students. What first drew her to New Garden was the small classes that allow teachers the opportunity to provide personalized teaching methods to fit all kinds of learning styles.

Before coming to NGFS, Blair had several years of experience as a Spanish teacher. She has taught at B’nai Shalom Middle School, Southwest Guilford High School, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

In her free time, Blair enjoys cooking, playing tennis, travelling, and reading. She also loves to spend time with her husband, Carlos, and her two children, Miguel and Sofia.