Darlington School: Private Boarding School in Georgia Darlington Connects: Ashley (Ware) Anglin ('03)
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Darlington Connects: Ashley (Ware) Anglin (’03)

Izzy Pollard | May 17, 2022 | 176 views

We're excited to connect with our alumni through our Darlington Connects series. Today, we spotlight Ashley (Ware) Anglin ('03), a Top 10 finalist for 2023 Teacher of the Year for the State of Georgia.

“Service Beyond Self” is a part of our motto and a practice that all Darlington students learn. But for Ashley (Ware) Anglin ('03), “Service Beyond Self” would ultimately put her on her future career path. During her 13-years at Darlington, she participated in many service projects that opened her eyes to a world outside of her own and helped instill a passion for service. 

If you are a fellow 2003 alumnus or were in Chorale or a play with Ashley, you might know that her dream was to be a country music superstar. However, she soon realized two things: No. 1, she’s (self-professed) not actually that great of a singer and No. 2, she really wanted to be a teacher and make a difference in the lives of students.

Ashley received her B.S. in Psychology and a Master’s in Early Childhood Education from Berry College. She completed her student teaching at Elm Street and loved it so much that she has been there ever since, starting in third grade and moving down to first, where she's been for the last nine years. 

Ashley said she strives to give her students experiences, skills and a love of learning that will stay with them throughout their lives. All of these experiences work together to create a year filled with real-world connections to learning; collaboration between students, teachers, parents, families, and community members; and, of course, service to others.

Ashley encourages and embraces each child’s gifts and differences, which help to enrich the classroom culture and atmosphere. Every day is a celebration because she celebrates every accomplishment, no matter how small.

Oh, and if you thought she totally abandoned her dream of being a singer, you'll be happy to know that Ashley routinely incorporates music into the classroom. Some of her favorite lessons are those where her students choose a popular song and change the words to make it educational.

“Since I’m all about music, my teaching theme song is 'Speak Life' by Toby Mac; particularly the part that says, 'Watch 'em come alive as soon as you speak hope, you speak love, you speak life,'" she said. 

It should be no surprise to anyone reading this -- or to Ashley’s friends, peers or students -- that she was selected as a finalist for the 2023 Georgia Teacher of the Year. She is in the company of nine other amazing educators from across the state. Join us in congratulating Ashely for this amazing accomplishment! 

Are you a member of Darlington Community (or do you know one) with an interesting career or community involvement? We'd love to spotlight you in a future blog! Please email connect@darlingtonschool.org if you are interested in being featured.