Meet Hannah Phalen

There’s a new teacher at Patrick M. Villano School. Her name is Hannah Phalen, and she teaches every grade in the school.

“It’s exciting! I get to have so many experiences all at once,” Phalen said.

As a special education teacher, Phalen has just a handful of students from fourth, fifth, and sixth grades. Phalen replaced Kathy Davies who retired at the end of last school year.

“I love it! The teachers and staff are so welcoming and it’s just a supportive environment,” Phalen said of her new school.

Phalen enjoys her new students and said, “I think we’re really getting into our schedule, and it’s going to be a great year!”

Alex Gerhold is a fourth-grader who knows Phalen. “She’s the best teacher ever!” he said. Alex’s brother, William, also knows Phalen.

“Ms. Phalen is a really good teacher,” the older Gerhold said.

Phalen admits it can be scary starting something new, but it’s going well.

“So many new names to remember, and so many new coworkers, but everyone is so welcoming and nice to me,” she explained.