Mrs. Durfee recently relocated to Houston from Japan where she taught Spanish for 8 years to children of  military families. She particularly loves teaching children about the culture and language of Spanish. She looks forward to teaching Spanish to our Pre-K 3 through 5th grade students twice a week. She has designed her lessons with the goal of developing confident fluency when speaking to native Spanish speakers. She is a skilled instructor that creates a secure and stimulating environment where students feel comfortable engaging in conversation with their classmates, singing Spanish songs, and engaging in hands-on activities.

During PE, Mrs. Purdum coaches students to work together in teams, practice their coordination, be active, and have fun while exercising. Her physical education curriculum incorporates different games and activities that encourage children to enjoy physical activity. This year she is excited to start her Ancient Civilization PE Academic Club where students will learn a variety of ancient sports like archery, discus and Mayan football as well as the ancient rules of good sportsmanship.

Michaela Searfoorce, art/drama/music instructor at St. Thomas the Apostle Episcopal School, is a graduate of the Crane School of Music SUNY Potsdam and Ohio State University. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Performance, a Master’s degree in Music Theory, and is working on her Doctorate in Music Theory. After teaching privately and at the college level, Ms. Searfoorce found her passion as the music and drama director at a private school in Charlottesville, VA where she directed annual winter concerts, spring musicals and a top-ranked competitive choir. She is thrilled to bring her experience and enthusiasm to St. Thomas!