The adults who have been elected by the school community to be a part of its daily existence are known as 'staff', not 'teachers'. This is because their job encompasses much more than teaching, and in fact may involve no teaching at all in the traditional sense. Staff do not serve as authority figures but have an equal say with the students in the daily running of the school. Staff serve primarily as role models of responsible behaviour and life-long learning. They also ensure that the school runs smoothly by taking on any administrative tasks that are not assumed by the students. Staff act rather like librarians by helping students find resources in the school and the community if asked. More traditionally, staff will teach classes in their areas of expertise if students request this, but classes may equally be taught by students or experts from outside the school. Because learning at this type of school is self-directed, a student may graduate with a good education without ever taking a formal class. 

The Beach School is always looking for potential staff on either a volunteer basis; a limited contractual time as a specific resource; or for a permanent paid position.  For more information about becoming a Staff Candidate click here.

Staff for 2007-2008:

	Kristin Simpson Kristin has a 15-year background in rowing as a competitor and a coach for athletes of various ages and levels of experience. She was a full-time staff member last year and had worked for the previous two years as a tutor for children aged 6 to 18 in various subjects (primarily English) and has run writing and French classes for homeschoolers. She is an avid reader and enjoys writing, photography, music, and the outdoors. She has a B.A. (Honours) in English and Latin, an M.A. in English, and a B.Ed., all from the University of Toronto. Kristin was an original founder and put in hundreds of hours of volunteer work hoping to one day be staff at The Beach School. Kristin was responsible for ensuring that The Beach School stayed true to the Sudbury Valley school model. The students at TBS are thrilled that she did as they are enjoying the benefits of a true Sudbury education thanks to her commitment and character. Kristin is a great role model and the parents of The Beach school are also thankful for her involvement.
	Diedrie Gardner
	Tane Akamatsu