What unites Oliverian faculty? A passion for learning and a love of students!

Like their students, Oliverian teachers are a unique breed. And while each of our talented educators has their own approach to the classroom, what they share is an intense dedication to knowledge, creativity, and the success of their students. Oli teachers are deeply involved and invested in the lives of the students they teach — both in and out of the classroom.

As Oliverian Academic Director Abby Hood puts it, “it takes a unique person and unique faculty to say, ‘Hey, I want to live on campus with a bunch of students. And not only do I want to do that, but I can’t imagine not doing that.’”

Let’s take a look at five of the qualities that set Oliverian teachers apart — qualities that all of our teachers have in common:

1. They have a deep passion for the subjects they teach.

At Oliverian, teachers are passionate about the subjects they teach, and they’re excited to instill that same passion in each of their students. Our teachers also have a great deal of independence and autonomy in designing their course curriculum and are encouraged to present subjects in whatever unconventional or adventurous ways are most likely to foster engagement and learning in their students.

2. They love working with young people — in all their quirky glory!

If a person doesn’t love — really, absolutely love — working with teenagers, Oliverian won’t be a fit for them. Our teachers see young people in all of their complexity as creative, intelligent, fascinating individuals with the potential to change the world. Working with teenagers, especially those who don’t fit neatly within the “traditional” box, is certainly not without its challenges, but Oliverian teachers are excited to meet those challenges head-on.

3. They are flexible and willing to adapt in the face of challenges.

One of the primary tenets of Oliverian’s education ethos is flexibility. Teenagers need the freedom to explore their interests and uncover their passions, and our teachers are here to support and encourage them along the way. Our faculty members are agile and adaptable as they work to meet every individual student’s unique needs.

4. They’re always coming up with creative solutions.

Whether it’s figuring out a new way to explain a calculus proof or devising a hands-on exercise that helps students unpack Shakespeare’s greatest hits, Oliverian teachers are every bit as creative as their students. By approaching traditional subject matter in unorthodox ways, they encourage students to learn and solve problems in whatever way works best for them.

5. They are warm, engaged, loving (and have great senses of humor).

Oliverian teachers and staff are bright, engaged, and deeply caring people who are inspired by Oliverian’s mission and committed to its students. They don’t just show up to teach a class and go home at the end of the day — after `all, they live right here on the very same campus. Ours is a group of exceptional instructors who put their students’ needs at the forefront. Oliverian teachers don’t just teach; they care. Our teachers get results in the classroom in part because of the investment they make in students outside of the classroom — sharing meals together, going on school outings, and opening their homes and families.