Harriett Callahan has over 30 years of teaching experience and plans to continue in the classroom for a little while longer.
“In 2018, I completed 25 years in the State of Alabama and retired from public school. The ink hadn’t dried on the paperwork before the opportunity to teach homeschool came into play,” Harriet shared. “Few can say, ‘I am excited to get to do my job’ as I feel it isn’t a job. It is a joy! I’m in my happy place, and if it be His will, I’m trying to reach 80 before I stop.”
Harriett teaches for Heartwood Christian Academy, a ministry of Oak Park Church in Mobile. The Academy uses the facility one day a week, during which all classes are in session. Some of the students in her classroom fall under the Academy’s homeschool covering, while others are considered co-op students.
Teaching both physical education and science has been part of Harriet’s journey over the past three decades. She has been privileged to teach in many different schools as well. This year, she will be teaching her students forensics, chemistry, anatomy, and physiology.
“Surrounded by a community that places Christ at the head brings such joy that one can muster through any challenge. For the first time throughout my teaching career, I can see firsthand the various learning styles and learn how to accommodate these,” shared Harriett.
Letting students make choices in their education has made a huge impact on the success of each class, explained Harriett. At the end of each year, students choose a portion of the subject to teach; these are usually sub-subjects they were not able to work through together during class.
“They work so well in teams that I can set up the equipment, lay out the purpose, and they will figure out how to meet the objective,” said Harriett. “The most heartfelt joy I have had is watching the introvert, non-participant, self-contained student come out to explain to others with confidence, ‘This is how it’s done!’”
At 77 years old, Harriett is very spirited yet humble and gives God all the glory for everything she has accomplished thus far in her journey. She is confident he will continue to bless her in remarkable ways.
“I owe ALL that I have been able to do to other teachers, mentors, parents, and friends,” Harriett reflected. “As we say, ‘Teachers are the best thieves.’ We steal ideas from anyone and everyone.”
Harriett Callahan has been married to her husband Tom for 58 years. They have two children, three grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. She completed her BS in Elementary Education at the University of Birmingham in 1992, with a major in Secondary Science. She has participated in five Ironman events, completing two, and qualified for Team USA in the Olympic Triathlon four times. She has also participated in the World Olympics twice.
