Severn Welcomes New Faculty and Staff

9/16/2026

Severn is thrilled to welcome 15 new faculty and staff members to the Severn family for the 2026–2027 school year.

The newest members of the Admiral family include Imani Alleyne, Library Associate; Holly Bice, Grade 1 Teaching Assistant; Aalisa Blackwood, US History; David Dove, Lower School Physical Education; Lydia Emory, US Language and JV Volleyball Coach; Susan Freye, Grade Two Teacher; Stephanie Handford, US Science; Leah McGinnity, Prekindergarten Teaching Assistant; Barbara Miller, Preschool Teaching Assistant; Jeanne Salzman, US Administrative Assistant; Vanessa Smith, Kindergarten Science Teacher; Carter Sullivan, US History and Varsity Baseball Coach; Stephanie St. Clair, Accounting Manager; and Jill Tolbert, US Mathematics.

“Our new teachers have a range of experience levels,” says Upper School head Steve Soden, “It’s always fun having a variety of experience levels in our faculty, as both veteran teachers and newer teachers learn from one another. I am excited to have such a great group joining us this year.”

Taking a Closer Look

A few weeks into the year, we caught up with two of our newest teachers—Lower School PE teacher David Dove and Upper School math teacher Jill Tolbert—to learn more about their backgrounds and what brought them to Severn.

David Dove — Lower School Physical Education

A Severna Park native and Towson University graduate, David Dove brings a passion for helping students grow both physically and personally. After teaching in a variety of school settings, Dove was drawn to Severn’s commitment to the whole child and believes that “relationships come before instruction,” creating an environment where students feel comfortable learning, participating, and taking risks. This is especially important in young people as Dove is teaching Preschool through fifth grade.

“I want my students to understand that success is not about being the fastest, strongest, or most athletic person in the class,” says Dove, “but about effort, growth, perseverance, and supporting others. I hope they develop a positive relationship with physical activity and recognize the importance of taking care of their bodies and minds.”

Dove hopes students leave their classes with confidence, resilience, teamwork, and a positive relationship with physical activity.

Jill Tolbert — Upper School Mathematics

Originally from Dublin, Georgia, Jill Tolbert joins the Severn family with over 30 years in math education and fourteen years in the high school classroom. Teaching has always held a special spark for Tolbert as she first fell in love with education as a little girl “playing teacher” with her friends. That spark has carried her to Severn where she will be teaching Algebra 2, AP Statistics, and AP Computer Science Principles.

Tolbert sees her role as reinforcing life skills, healthy habits, and self-awareness alongside every equation. “I endeavor to show both my students and my colleagues grace and compassion,” says Tolbert, “Helping them believe in themselves and to love and value themselves and one another.”

Outside the classroom you’ll discover Tolbert as a former pottery studio owner with many travels abroad, and one memorable summer walking more than 100 miles of the Camino de Santiago in just 10 days.

Severn Teachers: The Best of the Best

We’re happy to welcome David, Jill, and all our newest faculty and staff members to Severn. They will be joining the existing team of about 130 teachers, nearly 70% of whom hold advanced degrees. Additionally, this year, 24 faculty and staff members are celebrating five years at Severn, while about 20 have been part of the community for 10 years or more — including one Upper School teacher who is beginning his 51st year in the classroom.

We look forward to the experience, energy, and enthusiasm all our faculty and staff will bring to our students and community this school year.

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