Teachers are often seen as figures who live solely for their classrooms, but like everyone else, they have passions, hobbies, and interests that extend far beyond the school day. Mrs. Shelby Sullivan, an English teacher at Shadow Ridge High School, is no exception. Behind every lesson plan and grading session, teachers are still human, with their own lives full of creativity, relaxation, and fun. Sullivan’s life beyond her classroom paints a picture of a person who is just as unique as the students that she teaches.
Sullivan states, “I think kids often forget that teachers are just human beings trying to figure out this whole life thing, too. Outside of school, I am just another imperfect person doing their best and that I am not spending my free time analyzing texts for deeper meanings or thinking about verb tenses and comma rules.”
Sullivan hopes to remind students that teachers are not perfect and are constantly learning and growing. She hopes to break the stereotype of the “perfect teacher” and create a more relatable environment for her students and other students alike.
“I enjoy doing Nail Art. It started as a hobby to save money, but became something I thoroughly enjoyed doing.” She continues, “Some people find coloring books to be relaxing, I find designing and creating a set of nails to be that for me.”
Sullivan’s passion for nail art allows her to express her creativity and take a break from the demands of teaching, serving as a stress reliever and a form of self care, and giving herself a way to unwind. This shows that teachers sometimes have surprising interests that bring them joy outside of their responsibilities.
“I’ve been watching mainly Mickey Mouse Clubhouse recently. I hate it, but my son dances to the intro/outro songs which is adorable.” Sullivan states, “But, when I am able to watch something that isn’t toddler oriented, I am usually watching cooking or baking competition shows. I don’t know why, but I find them so addictive!”
This shows that even the smallest things can spark so much joy. Sullivan highlights her love for cooking and baking shows, and how watching her son dance to a theme song can turn something she doesn’t usually enjoy into something that is special to her.
