Rooted in Education:
Building a Life Where I Teach

Some of the most important lessons aren’t taught in a classroom. They happen in the quiet moments before the first bell, in conversations on the sidelines of a soccer match, in the simple act of showing up—day after day. Teaching isn’t just about delivering content; it’s about being present, trusted, and part of something bigger than yourself.

After 25 years in education, with the last 10 years in Fairfield County School District, I’ve understood that teaching is more than instruction—it’s about the connections we build, the communities we serve, and the stability we create for ourselves and our students. My work in the Multilingual Learner Program and as a soccer coach at Fairfield Central High School has given me a front-row seat to the power of investing in educators. But beyond that, Fairfield is where I’ve built my home—not just as a teacher, but as a husband, father, and member of a close-knit community.

Teaching in Fairfield isn’t just a job—it’s a commitment to the students and families who trust us to guide them. In a rural district like ours, relationships matter. I don’t just see my students in the classroom; I see them at the grocery store, church, and soccer field. That constant presence creates a deeper level of accountability, investment, and trust. As a multilingual learner educator, I travel between schools, working with students from kindergarten to high school, helping them navigate academics, language barriers, and the challenges of adjusting to new environments. Teaching here is more than just delivering content—it’s about mentorship, advocacy, and ensuring every student feels seen and supported. I work closely with teachers, counselors, and social workers to ensure our students have what they need inside and outside the classroom. That kind of collaborative, student-centered approach is what makes this district special.

But connection alone isn’t enough to keep teachers here. Too often, rural districts like ours lose great educators because of long commutes, limited housing options, or the difficulty of balancing work and home life. That’s why the Teacher Village isn’t just a housing development—it’s a lifeline for those who want to build careers and communities in the same place. It removes barriers and gives teachers a reason to stay.

For me, moving into the Teacher Village has been a game-changer. It’s not just about the shorter commute, though that’s part of it. What truly makes a difference is how much easier it is to balance work and home life. With my new home just minutes from school, I’ve found more time to engage with my students, reconnect with my family, and recharge after a long day. I no longer rush to beat traffic, and my kids feel safe here and know I’m always close by. There’s something powerful about that sense of security—for them and for me. This place isn’t just convenient—it’s a foundation that allows me to be the best version of myself, both in and out of the classroom.

Beyond the personal benefits, living in the Teacher Village has strengthened my connection to my students and their families. I can attend more school events, visit students’ homes when needed, and engage with the community in ways that wouldn’t be possible if I lived farther away. Proximity matters, and having a community of fellow educators next door fosters a shared sense of purpose and support. The thoughtful design, affordability, and accessibility of these homes show that Fairfield County values its teachers—not just for the work we do, but for the lives we build here. When a district invests in its educators, the entire community benefits.

The Teacher Village is more than just a place to live—it’s a national model for how we support and retain teachers in rural districts. It’s proof that when you remove barriers like long commutes and high housing costs, teachers not only stay but thrive. Fairfield isn’t just where I work—it’s where I’ve built my home, career, and future. By creating a stable, supportive environment for educators, the district isn’t just keeping teachers—it’s strengthening schools, improving student outcomes, and building a community where everyone can succeed.

Fairfield isn’t just where I work—it’s where I show up, invest, and stay. And that’s exactly the kind of place I want to call home.