Whether she is guiding students through multi-digit division or dodging the occasional loose molar, fourth grade math teacher Mrs. Gerin Harris approaches each day at Pine Crest with a deep sense of gratitude, a love of learning and a comfortingly consistent rice bowl. As a former figure skating coach turned educator, she brings energy, empathy and purpose to everything she does—including why she gives back.
Q: How long have you been teaching at Pine Crest and what brought you here?
I started in the fall of 2013, and it was actually my husband, George’s job that brought us here. Pine Crest had launched a national search for a lacrosse coach, and George was working at Wittenberg University in Ohio at the time. We knew we wanted to head south eventually and figured it might be time for a change from college lacrosse, so we took a leap of faith. George applied, interviewed and got the job. I then interviewed for a kindergarten position on the second-to-last day of school, and that’s where I began.
Q: What grades have you taught since then?
I’ve always been in the Lower School. I started in kindergarten, but that spring a fourth grade math position opened up. I applied, got the role, and I’ve been teaching fourth grade math ever since.
Q: Do you designate your gift to a specific area of the School? If so, what draws you to support that area?
We specifically earmark our annual gift for athletics. That became an option when the giving model shifted and allowed us to designate where we wanted our gift to go. Both George and I were three-sport athletes growing up, and we understand how impactful athletics can be — not just while students are here, but well beyond graduation. So many of our students are also athletes, and we know firsthand how those experiences shape character and memories. That’s why we choose to support the athletics program.
Q: What does being part of the Pine Crest community mean to you, both professionally and personally?
I’m incredibly proud to be a teacher here. Even after 12 years, I still walk around campus in awe of everything we’re able to offer our students and families. We’re so fortunate to have the resources and support that we do—from President Dr. Markham ’18H to the facilities and housekeeping teams who maintain our buildings. I’ve built wonderful relationships with both faculty and staff across campus, and every year I get to build new ones. That’s something I truly treasure.
Q: Would you say those are the same reasons that inspire you to give each year?
Absolutely. A lot of the students I teach in fourth grade will go on to play lacrosse for George, and I love that connection. Our donation might not be the largest, but I know it impacts what George and the other coaches are doing day to day—and eventually, it will impact my own students. There’s something really special about that full-circle connection.
Q: What is your favorite Pine Crest tradition or event and why?
I love the holiday season. Since I started, the Lower School on the Boca campus has embraced celebrating all holidays. We have themed dress-up days leading up to winter break. Students have a blast, and we get to see their personalities shine through. On the last half day before break, we have our fourth grade holiday party and Ms. Deb Blakely and her students put on a wonderful annual holiday show. It’s such a joyful way to end the semester and connect with students and their families.
Q: What’s your go-to meal in the dining hall?
I eat the same thing every day! Rice, whatever vegetable is in the hot line, a little shredded cheese, and a bit of salad dressing. It’s nothing fancy, but it brings me comfort. It’s familiar and satisfying, and it gives me a moment to pause and recharge with my fourth grade colleagues.
Q: In your opinion, what defines the Pine Crest experience and how does that shape our students?
From kindergarten through fourth grade and beyond, I see a genuine love and excitement for learning in our students. Not every child loves math, but they trust what Mrs. Farsedakis (my teaching partner) and I do in the classroom. That trust allows them to try things outside of their comfort zones. We talk a lot about growth and the importance of celebrating the process rather than just the end product. When students know that learning doesn’t have to be perfect, just meaningful, that’s when we start to see them take ownership of their education. That mindset—resilience, curiosity and joy in the process is what sets our students apart.
Q: As a faculty chair for annual giving, what message would you like to share with your colleagues?
Every single dollar matters. Every gift enhances an already incredible experience for our students. Whether it’s a small donation or a major one, it makes a difference.
Q: What’s something your students or colleagues might be surprised to learn about you?
I was a figure skating coach for 19 years. During that time, I earned a U.S. and Canadian gold medal in Ice Dance. Not something people expect from a math teacher, but it’s a big part of my background!
Q: If you could trade jobs with anyone on campus for a day, who would it be and why?
I have a fear of blood, so I think I’d challenge myself by working in the health office. I’d trade places with Nurse Cathy, Nurse Lourdes or Nurse Nicole, they’re all amazing! Every year we have students in fourth grade losing molars left and right, and I get a very queasy stomach at the sight of a tooth that has fallen out. I do my best to stay calm so I don’t scare my students, but I think working with the nurses would really help me overcome this fear!
Read about the Faculty Giving Chair for the Fort Lauderdale campus, Coach George Harris.
