Carole Paterson, a graduate of St. Lawrence University, began her teaching career as an environmental educator and summer camp director in the Catskills of New York. She found great inspiration in the outdoors and practical application of complex topics through outdoor pursuits and exploration. Carole moved to Pennsylvania where land and water conservation took a front stage as she worked with local and regional organizations to address environmental challenges while simultaneously increasing public awareness and engagement around environmental concerns. Although the work was rewarding and successful, Carole felt drawn to the classroom. After earning her teaching degree from Saint Vincent College, she taught environmental science at Greater Latrobe High School for seven years. Carole joined the faculty at Valley School in 2013 to teach Lower School science and coach girls field hockey.