Alyssa McKee ’14 ’20 chose to attend Shenandoah because of its reputation for providing a quality education with a small-town feel. She preferred an in-person learning experience and for her graduate program, Shenandoah provided an in-person cohort to easily make connections with others, which was important to her.
Through Shenandoah, Mckee was able to foster and develop intricate relationships with her teachers and fellow classmates. These relationships were integral to her and allowed Mckee to enjoy her time making memories inside and outside of the classroom. On the day of her graduation, there was a storm, but instead of letting it ruin the celebration, the students and staff went inside for a dance party where they created fun memories. Mckee graduated with several awards including a Teacher of Promise and the Mary B. Wilkins Teaching Award.
Mckee is an assistant principal at James Wood High School in Winchester, Virginia, where she works in a variety of capacities to ensure the success of students. Before this position, she worked as an English teacher and a senior lead teacher.
The most rewarding part of Mckee’s career has been connecting and forming positive relationships with students and families. “I’m in the people business and I love helping others be successful and helping students establish or continue a love of learning,” said Mckee.
Shenandoah helped Mckee succeed by providing her with a great sense of community as she still interacts with members of her cohort regularly. During her time at Shenandoah, she was able to ask questions and personalize her learning with professors, which has been beneficial to her role as an assistant principal. The university has also continued to offer her many partnerships long after graduation to help her succeed throughout her career in education.
Mckee’s advice to students in her major is to “ask questions and find joy in learning.”