English class is a special place for many. It is where some of the most meaningful and impactful discussions take place. However, no English classroom is complete without a unique English teacher.
This year, Haverford welcomes Ms. MeeRee Orlandini, who will teach English II and III.
Ms. Orlandini started her teaching journey during high school at the University of the Arts. In its summer institute, she assisted in the Creative Writing program. Then, she continued on with creative writing, teaching and coordinating the program. After earning her BFA, Ms. Orlandini taught first and third grade at Germantown Friends School before temporarily relocating to the University of Amsterdam for her Master’s in English Literature.
Ms. Orlandini sees books as not only a tool for learning but also as a way of expression.
“As a learner and an educator, I really cherish books for the narratives and worldviews they offer,” Ms. Orlandini said. “I enjoy thinking of language as a medium in which we can express ourselves, our histories, and our corners of the world.”
Ms. Orlandini shared an important lesson about a few books that she has acquired.
“I’ve learned that not every book will be your favorite, of course, but often those are the ones you find yourself getting the most out of,” she said. “Those are the books and reading experiences that stick with you. For me, I am especially and specifically referring to Joyce’s Ulysses and Shakespeare’s Henry IV.”
“One of my favorite moments in class has been hearing a just-written poem read aloud for the first time.”
Ms. MeeRee Orlandini
Creative forms of expression inside the classroom are impactful to Ms. Orlandini, due to her studies and degree in Creative Writing.
“To this day, one of my favorite moments in class has been hearing a just-written poem read aloud for the first time,” Ms. Orlandini said.
Ms. Orlandini is also involved with creative writing outside of the classroom.
“I try my hardest to be a practicing writer, poet, editor, and critic, especially in the Philadelphia community,” Ms. Orlandini said.
In addition to creative writing, Ms. Orlandini enjoys movies, Philadelphia sports, hiking, and road trips. She especially enjoys outdoor activities in the fall when the leaves change. Her current favorite hobby, however, is working as a jeweler’s assistant.
“It’s relaxing and fun to do hands-on work and pay attention to process and detail very differently than I would writing or reading,” Ms. Orlandini said.
As a local, Ms. Orlandini was drawn to many aspects of Haverford.
“I grew up in the area and have always admired the values and community of The Haverford School,” Ms. Orlandini said. “I have known it to be a wonderful institution for boys, a fierce competitor in athletics, and a strong community of values.”
Ms. Orlandini most looks forward not only to meeting students, but seeing how her students express themselves “through literary and creative writing skills, but also beyond.”
