Amy Norton

About Amy:

She earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with a minor in Educational Technology and a master’s degree in Language Education from Indiana University Bloomington. She later continued her professional learning through the Literacy Collaborative at Purdue University, the Indiana Writing Project Intensive, and her Secondary Montessori Credential through Center for Montessori Teacher Education NY (CMSTEP).

For the past 28 years, she has found deep joy in teaching and in nurturing a lifelong love of literacy in students of all ages. She cares deeply about helping students grow into confident readers, writers, and thinkers while feeling known, supported, and valued within the learning community.

Favorite "Only at Oak Farm" memory?:

"When on our fall camping trip at the Red River Gorge, we came across a young lady whose car had gone off the road right in front of the Nada Tunnel. (A historic one-lane tunnel). All traffic was backed up on both sides. So what did the Oak Farm high school community do? We got off of our vans and actually lifted her car back onto the road."

What work at OFMS feels most meaningful to you?:

"I absolutely love preparing lessons that will get students moving around the room and collaborating as a first or second period lesson. These moments of shared problem solving and active learning lead to students identifying as contributors, leaders, and engaged members of the community. I also deeply value observing a strong Socratic Seminar in action. When students take ownership of thoughtful, respectful dialogue—asking questions, challenging ideas, and building understanding together—it reflects the kind of critical thinking and empathy our future leaders will need. These student-led works leave me feeling hopeful about the direction of our communities and our world, and it truly is a joy and gift to prepare for them."

How long have you been at OFMS?:

5 Years