From Student to Mentor: Hannah Munford Paves Her Path at Insight School of Washington

Hannah Munford’s journey with Insight School of Washington began in 2012, not as a teacher, but as a student. During her junior year of high school, Hannah faced health challenges that made in-person schooling difficult. Frequent doctor appointments and the need for a more accommodating schedule led her to explore online education, and that’s when she found Insight School of Washington. What started as a necessary shift quickly became a turning point in her life.

Transitioning from brick-and-mortar to online learning wasn’t just smooth for Hannah, it was life-changing. She fast-tracked from junior to senior year, earned college credits, and joined the National Honor Society (NHS). She even went on a Spanish class field trip that sparked new friendships, many of which she still treasures today.

After graduating from Insight School of Washington, Hannah attended Seattle Pacific University, where she continued to face health challenges, but the support she received at Insight School of Washington played a role in her resilience. During college, a teacher from her past reached out, inviting her to return, not as a student this time, but as a Family Academic Support Liaison.

That initial role eventually led to something much bigger. After completing her student teaching, she contacted her former principal and mentor, Myron, about any open special education positions. By 2021, she was not only working full-time but also earning her Master’s degree through K12’s teacher program, all while supporting students with social, behavioral, and health-related needs.

Working with this group of students has become her passion. “They’re my favorite group,” Hannah shared. “I see so much strength in them.”

Her colleagues, who were once her teachers, speak of her with admiration and affection. Mrs. Debi Ronholt, her former NHS advisor and now fellow English teacher, remembers Hannah as “friendly, hardworking, and funny” as a student and says she still brings those same traits to her role today.  “She strives to know her students despite being in an online environment. She does not shy away from students who have obstacles and challenges.” 

Mrs. Andrea Teske, who taught Hannah in Creative Writing, fondly recalls how Hannah completed the entire course in just seven days. Years later, they reconnected unexpectedly through Andrea’s son, who brought home a note from a familiar name, Hannah had been student teaching at his middle school. Now colleagues, Andrea says, “She is a straightshooter; she gives you precise advice and suggestions on how to help students. She is quick witted. She has always had a strong rapport with students due to her personality and honesty. They know she won’t lie to them, and they trust her.”

From student to teacher, Hannah embodies everything Insight School of Washington stands for, resilience, connection, and a deep commitment to supporting every learner. We’re proud to have her on our team and are inspired by her journey. One of her favorite quotes says it all: “Be the change you want to see in the world [Mahatma Ghandi].”