Serena Hawkley

“Aloha!  I’ve been teaching since 2011 when I first began teaching kindergarten in Kapaa, Kauai.  I moved back to Chico to teach kindergarten at Notre Dame and met my husband while playing for the same softball team. Fun fact: we were both in the same fifth grade class! I had a lot of favorite teachers growing up and they all had one thing in common: reminded me of Mary Poppins.  “In every job that must be done, there is an element of fun.”

I’ve always wanted to have a career in education and was lucky enough to work at a wonderful school called Chico Country Day School in 2003! Yep, that’s right, I worked in the After School Program at CCDS while going to Chico State to obtain my teaching credential.  I am excited to be back with Team CCDS as a Kindergarten teacher along with my two kids. Talk about full circle!

After college I had the incredible opportunity to teach English in China.  I also published a children’s book, which helped fund more travels to Australia.  My family and I continue to have adventures in traveling.  My husband and I were able to fulfill my childhood dream of swimming with one of my favorite animals, dolphins!  (My other favorite is a platypus…haven’t had the chance to swim with one….yet.) Aside from teaching, my joys include my family, friends, running, and reading a good book with a strong, delicious cup of coffee!  I also enjoy anything that consists of lots of love, laughter and fun!”