Weston Teacher Holds Her Own

WESTON, Conn. – When one of her first students needed help learning to be flexible with her schedule, Sarah Holder made a special storybook starring the student and taught her to not be upset when changes happen during the day.

“It applied not only to her, but my life as a teacher and what we encounter in school every day,” said Holder, who is one of Hurlbutt Elementary School’s newest teachers. She covered a teacher’s maternity leave last school year and was hired full time this year.

Holder teaches first and second grade special education at Hurlbutt. She works with students in small groups and one-on-one on reading, writing, language arts and social skills.

Holder is in her sixth year of teaching and worked on Long Island before coming to Weston last school year. She has wanted to be a teacher since she was in the second grade – her favorite year of school.

“I loved my teacher. She inspired me – I realized I had some of her qualities,” said Holder.

She received her bachelor’s degree from St. Joseph’s College in Patchogue, N.Y., and her master’s degree from Long Island University. Holder is certified in general education, special education and reading. Holder hopes to continue her education “to become a better teacher and always challenge myself,” she said.

Holder moved to Connecticut when her husband returned from the Marines and accepted a police officer position. She recently bought her first house and enjoys spending time with her family. She likes to garden and work on projects at her new house with her husband. Holder also enjoys reading, cooking and exercising. 

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