St. Mike’s Education program has a profound impact on Vermont schools – so much so, one K-8 school is practically turning purple

February 27, 2026 - 22:07

The influence of Saint Michael's College's educator preparation program is being vividly felt in classrooms across Vermont, with one local K-8 school showcasing its impact so profoundly it's "practically turning purple," the college's signature color. This trend highlights the deep pipeline of highly qualified teachers flowing from the Colchester institution into the state's educational system.

At Shelburne Community School, humanities teacher Meg O’Donnell, a 1988 graduate, embodies this connection. In her vibrant, book-filled classroom, she moves energetically among students, facilitating discussions and guiding projects. Her teaching philosophy and methods are rooted in the hands-on, liberal arts-focused pedagogy emphasized at Saint Michael's.

Administrators note that the school currently employs numerous Saint Michael's alumni and student-teachers, creating a cohesive culture that values community engagement, reflective practice, and a commitment to educating the whole child. This concentration of graduates from a single program fosters a shared instructional language and a strong support network among the staff.

The phenomenon underscores the college's successful mission to prepare educators who are not only skilled instructors but also dedicated community members. The visible "purple" presence in schools like Shelburne Community School serves as a testament to the program's ability to cultivate teachers who stay, contribute, and shape Vermont's educational landscape for the long term, ensuring a consistent and valued approach to learning for countless students.