Nicole Marie, MFA (Drumheller), Class of 1994
Tell us about your journey since KWS.
After I graduated from KWS in 1994, I attended Harcum College and completed their Plus Program, which was in place to prepare students with learning differences for university. I went on to achieve my Bachelor of Arts in History at Eastern University (Class of 1999), and my Master of Arts in Creative Writing at Rosemont College (Class of 2007). I have applied myself to create a life rich with my passion for art, literature, history, writing, and international friendships. In 2003 I moved to Savannah, GA where I taught English as Second Language. Later, I also lived in Bryn Mawr, PA and Boston, MA where I wrote for local newspapers. In 2014 I returned to my Chester County roots in PA. For a few years I lived in Kimberton, PA, where I worked assisting Memory Care patients. Later, I moved back to East Coventry, PA where I’m happy to be living with my husband Brian.
In 2019 I became an administrator for various Episcopal Churches for the diocese of Pennsylvania. I’m passionate about my work and sincerely believe working for the Episcopal Church is a calling. I’m dedicated to each parish I have served, and I continue to find purpose especially in communicating with the parish and assisting with the food pantry outreach ministries.
My education at KWS inspired me to become an avid world traveler. So far, I have especially loved visiting Orkney Scotland, Ireland, Italy, Greece, Jerusalem, Spain, Alaska, and Hawaii. I believe my Waldorf education cultivated my inclination and ability to soak up the beauty, historical details and wisdom of the cultures and the world surrounding me.
As much as I enjoy travel, however, I also love returning home. I care deeply about supporting local farms, National Parks, veterans, and indigenous peoples of the United States. I also keep writing. I discovered at an early age that animals are one of my favorite subjects to write about. I also enjoy writing about travel, veterans, and the dichotomy of the challenges and inspirations of everyday life. I have written creative non-fiction, children’s literature, and articles. You can visit my little personal blog listing some of my writings and travel experiences at: https://mergirll.wordpress.com
You experienced a learning disability while at KWS. How did the faculty and staff at the school support you? What impact did that have on you and your journey after you left KWS?
I have come to appreciate the unique journey and opportunities my parents blessed me with by sending me to KWS. I am not a critic of the public school system per se, but it is fact that at the time I was in school I would have been labeled a “special student” and not given the same individualized care I received at KWS. My teachers went above and beyond to work with me, tutor me, and encourage me to learn. My imagination was valued and the belief in educating the whole child certainly played a significant role in nurturing my ways of learning differently. Not being judged by standardized tests alone allowed me time and space to learn without judgment and at my own pace. My creative mind was valued and nurtured. I’m grateful my parents chose KWS.
Describe a memory at KWS that particularly stands out.
Having a student with a learning difference was no easy task for the faculty of KWS, and I remember well there was a question if I should be able to continue into the high school after eighth grade. Both reading and math were enormous struggles for me. I remember my Dad went before the faculty for what turned out to be an emotional meeting, where he pleaded with the faculty to not give up on me and to make it possible for me to continue on with my classmates. He explained that pulling me from the unique Waldorf education I was growing in would hurt my spirit. It is a powerful memory when he came home and told my mother and me that the teachers would indeed allow me to continue with my class to the next chapter of education.
Was there a particular teacher from your time at KWS that stands out? If so, why?
There are three. Mr. Kevin Hughes, Mrs. Sandra Williams, and Mrs. Susan Neumann. Each one of these teachers saw something in me and believed in me. They inspired me to work hard, they recognized my efforts, and had the insight not to give up on me. They found ways to keep my interest and nurture my joy in learning.
What would you like to tell current KWS Students?
Having a KWS education is a blessing that will give you unique insights throughout your life. Enjoy every moment you can, soak up those main lessons and eurythmy classes, and appreciate your singular teachers. Never ever lose your sense of wonder for the world. Find work in the world that you enjoy and that brings fulfillment to your soul.
