From Student to Teacher: Hannah Westfall Returns to The Malvern School as Head of the Class

When Hannah Westfall graduated from Pre-K at The Malvern School of Frazer in 2001, little did she know she would walk through the big red doors again 20 years later as a teacher at The Malvern School of Oaks. So, what brought the DeSales University grad back to where her education first started?

Hannah Westfall, who attended The Malvern School as a student 20 years ago, has returned as an assistant teacher in the Older Toddler classroom at The Malvern School of Oaks.

“I have always enjoyed working with children. It brings me such joy when they learn something new and are so excited about it. Watching their faces light up when they finally get something that they hadn’t understood before is truly special,” says Hannah, who is an assistant teacher in the Older Toddler classroom. “Even though I enjoyed my previous job, I had very little interaction with the students. I wanted to take a more active role in helping them learn and grow.”

She adds, “When I was little, I was very anxious and nervous, but I remember Ms. Christle [Seal] (The Malvern School’s Director of Educational Programs, who was Frazer’s Executive Director at the time) and my teachers always made me feel safe. I want to be there for kids who may feel the same way and bring them comfort while they’re at school.”

The personal attention she received as a student herself helped shape Hannah’s approach to teaching.

“I believe all children learn differently. As a teacher, it’s my job to accommodate the needs of all of the different children in my class,” she says. “I love coming up with different, creative ways to help children learn and, most of all, make it a fun experience for them!”

Ultimately, Hannah says not just teaching kids, but loving them like family, is what sets The Malvern School apart.

As she sees it, “The Malvern School is really like a big family. We truly care about our students and want to see them succeed. We also make it a point to build relationships with our Malvern School families, who know their children are in good hands and being well cared for while they’re at school.”

“I’m incredibly happy to be back,” says Hannah.

Are you or do you know a former Malvern School student? We would love to reconnect and hear what you’re up to! Send us a note at info@malvernschool.com.