Adventures in English, School Engagement & World Travels with Hannah Duran

When we asked Santa Clarita Valley International (SCVi) English teacher Hannah Duran to answer questions about herself, she understood the assignment. She gave us a complete and colorful portrait of who she is, what she believes, and how she feels about our tuition-free TK-12th grade school here in Castaic. A+ with extra credit for her impressive Twenty One Pilots catalog she keeps in her head!

Please tell us about your background and how you came to be at SCVi.

I come from a diverse background with roots in Israeli, Mexican, and Irish heritage, and I’ve always had a passion for storytelling, culture, and human connection. My journey into education began after I graduated from California Lutheran University, where I earned my degree in Communications. I was drawn to SCVi because of its emphasis on project-based learning, social-emotional development, and creating meaningful educational experiences that value the whole learner.

With experience in both general education and special education, I found that SCVi’s inclusive and creative environment aligned perfectly with my teaching philosophy. I now teach middle and high school English, serve as the ASB director, Yearbook advisor, and field trip coordinator, and I love helping students explore who they are and how they can make an impact on the world around them.

What do you LOVE about SCVi? What sets it apart from other schools?

What I absolutely love about SCVi is how it truly puts the learner at the center of everything. It’s not just a school—it’s a community that values individuality, creativity, and emotional growth just as much as academic success. What sets SCVi apart is its commitment to project-based learning, which allows students to explore real-world topics in meaningful ways.

I also appreciate how SEL (Social Emotional Learning) is deeply embedded in the school culture. The relationships between staff, learners, and families feel genuine and supportive. SCVi empowers learners to be leaders, to think critically, and to express themselves confidently. It’s a place where both students and teachers can grow—and where every voice matters.

What’s the best part about your role? What’s the biggest challenge?

The best part about my role is that I get to be the teacher I needed when I was my students’ age. Whether I’m teaching English, leading ASB, planning field trips, coordinating the yearbook, or just checking in with a learner who’s having a hard day, I see each moment as an opportunity to support and uplift kids who might be going through more than they let on. I love helping them find their voice, build confidence, and feel seen—whether through writing, leadership, or meaningful conversations.

The biggest challenge is balancing all the roles I hold while still giving each learner the attention and support they deserve. Teaching multiple grade levels, coordinating events, and managing after-school programs can be a lot—but seeing my students grow and thrive makes every late night and busy day absolutely worth it.

Are you involved in other activities at SCVi? What are some events you enjoy at SCVi?

Yes! I’m very involved in several activities at SCVi outside of the classroom. I serve as the ASB Director for Middle School, where I help guide our student leaders in planning events like dances, spirit weeks, and fundraisers. I also run the Yearbook Club and our after-school Film Production program, where learners write, direct, and produce their own short films. On Thursdays, I offer after-school English support for any learners who need extra help or time to catch up on assignments.

One of my favorite events at SCVi is Literacy Night, where learners showcase their writing, speeches, and creative projects. I also love participating in school-wide celebrations like the Fall Festival, the multicultural festival, and, of course, our Washington D.C. field trip with 8th grade—which I’ve led three times now! These events build such a strong sense of community and give learners a chance to shine outside the classroom.

There are great Social Emotional Learning activities and opportunities at SCVi- can you share a story about seeing learners using them in action? 

One of the most powerful examples of Social Emotional Learning (SEL) in action at SCVi takes place during our learner presentations in SEL circles. These circles create a judgment-free space where learners are encouraged to share their projects, ideas, and personal reflections with the class. Whether they’re presenting their Identity POL, My Hero essays, or Vision Board projects, these moments become more than just academic checkpoints—they become opportunities for connection, empathy, and growth.

After each presentation, peers offer positive feedback and encouragement. I’ve seen learners who were once shy or anxious about speaking in front of others stand up with confidence, knowing they’re in a supportive environment. It’s amazing to witness students clapping for each other, offering thoughtful comments like, “You really inspired me,” or “I relate to your story,” and building each other up in authentic ways.

These circles reinforce our classroom values of respect, kindness, and courage. They not only help learners develop their communication skills but also foster deep social-emotional development. Watching students support each other so openly reminds me why SEL is at the heart of everything we do at SCVi.

Please give us a few examples of hands-on project-based learning in your classroom:

In my English classroom, hands-on project-based learning is woven into everything we do. One example is our Identity POL (Presentation of Learning), where learners reflect on their personal journeys and present their identities through visuals, writing, and oral presentations. This not only strengthens writing and public speaking skills but also deepens self-awareness and empathy among peers.

Another project is our My Hero Essay & Interview Project, where learners identify someone in their life or community who has inspired them. They conduct interviews, write five-paragraph essays, and present their heroes to the class. It blends narrative writing with real-world research and connection.

In 8th grade, we also connect our Hidden Figures novel study to science by pairing it with a glider design challenge in collaboration with our STEAM team. Students analyze nonfiction literature and then apply themes of perseverance and innovation by creating and testing their own paper gliders.

Lastly, during our College and Career Readiness unit, learners research future goals, write professional emails, create vision boards, and present their findings at a school-wide showcase on National Career Day. Each of these projects is grounded in standards while also encouraging creativity, purpose, and personal expression.

In your opinion, what makes a great leader? How do you teach leadership?

In my opinion, a great leader is someone who listens with empathy, leads by example, and uplifts others rather than seeking the spotlight. True leadership is rooted in humility, accountability, and the courage to do what’s right—even when it’s hard. A great leader also recognizes the strengths in others and helps bring out the best in them.

I teach leadership by creating opportunities for learners to lead in small and meaningful ways. Whether it’s rotating classroom responsibilities, leading group discussions, or organizing school events through ASB (Associated Student Body), I encourage learners to step into roles where they can practice decision-making, collaboration, and communication. I also model vulnerability and reflection, allowing students to see that leadership is a process of growth. In our SEL circles, learners often give peer feedback and share goals, which creates a safe environment to practice leadership through voice and support. We talk about different leadership styles and explore what kind of leaders they want to be—not just in school, but in life.

Do you have any pre-classroom rituals?

Yes! One of my favorite pre-classroom rituals is trying to capture a photo of the world’s most glorious sunrise before I head into school. There’s something about the colors in the sky that centers me and reminds me to start the day with gratitude and wonder. 

Fun Facts About Ms. Duran

• I traveled around the world by ship! I studied abroad through the Semester at Sea program, visiting 12 different countries while living on a floating university. From hiking volcanos in Hawaii to exploring the Taj Mahal in India and riding camels through the sand dunes of Morocco, it was the adventure of a lifetime. On this program, I became an Emerald Shellback Viking. This incredible milestone was achieved by crossing the Equator at zero degrees longitude and latitude—also known as the “Line Crossing Ceremony.” To earn the title, I completed a series of time-honored Viking rituals out at sea with my shipmates. It was wild, hilarious, and completely unforgettable! It’s a unique badge of honor that connects me to a global community of travelers who’ve shared the same bold adventure.
• I’ve visited 16 countries and counting! Since Semester at Sea, I’ve continued to travel and learn about new cultures. I believe travel is one of the greatest teachers, and I bring that global perspective into my classroom to inspire my students.
• I’m passionate about art. Whether it’s writing, filmmaking, or photography, art has always been how I express myself and connect with the world around me. I love storytelling in all its forms, and I’m constantly looking for new ways to inspire creativity in my students.
• I survived a debilitating autoimmune disease. I spent over six months in the hospital and went through years of recovery. That experience taught me resilience, patience, and how precious life is. It’s a big reason why I show up with so much heart in the classroom.
• Despite a rough upbringing and my battle with dyslexia, I’m proud to be an English teacher. I understand firsthand how challenging school can be for some learners, which is why I work so hard to make my classroom a safe, encouraging space. I strive every day to be the kind of teacher I needed when I was growing up.

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts with us Ms. Duran! Come take a tour of our school and see our safe and supportive TK-12 in action. Enrollment for 2025-26 is open!

 

About SCVi:

Santa Clarita Valley International School (SCVi) is a free public charter school empowering TK-12th graders to become conscientious, compassionate, and responsible citizens of the world. Founded in 2008, we use project-based and social-emotional learning concepts to inspire and motivate lifelong learners with the skills they need to lead in the 21st century. We incorporate technology into every component of our curriculum, and we value and encourage development of leadership skills by inspiring confidence and character in each of our unique learners. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook and find us at www.ileadsantaclarita.org.

 

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