Walking into English teacher Christine Ferrone’s classroom, one is likely to see desks arranged in a horseshoe, where daily literary debates take place, and student projects on a wall opposite windows that look out onto the courtyard — at this time of year, a cherry tree is in full bloom and on display. For Ms. Ferrone, teaching is not only about informing young minds, but also about connecting with students, nature, and the Island community on a deeper level.
As one of the most senior staff members at Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School (MVRHS), Ms. Ferrone currently teaches Advanced Placement (AP) Literature, Capstone, and a course on the “Psychology of Happiness.”
Senior Samilly Guimaraes said, “When I took Ms. Ferrone’s happiness class, my perspective on life changed completely. She was someone who was able to give me the light at the end of the tunnel when I needed it most. Ms. Ferrone is a teacher who takes time to help students when they’re struggling, and explains things in a way that resonates with us.”
“Teaching is the most challenging and difficult profession, while also being the most rewarding,” said Ms. Ferrone. “I consider it a spiritual practice, because when you’re interfacing with so many people, so many students, it’s as if you are confronting the human condition, and you are inevitably confronting yourself.”
The paradox of something being negative and positive at the same time is a central theme in Ms. Ferrone’s AP Literature class, and mirrors the tension she is able to hold in her own life.
Though she’s been a teacher for almost 30 years, she did not originally consider teaching as a career path. “Teaching felt like a logical extension of my [undergraduate] course of study, which was English and American studies,” she said. “I’ve often said that I didn’t choose teaching, teaching chose me, and for me it’s probably true.”
After spending a year teaching English in Colombia, followed by a year teaching English at Scituate High School, Ms. Ferrone moved to the Island. She has taught a variety of courses within the English department, and became the department chair in 2020, where she is known for her empathic and collaborative leadership style.
Outside of school, Ms. Ferrone engages with the community — and often former students — by participating in writing groups and theater productions. She also values her frequent beach walks and dog walks through the local forests.
“I really like the quietness of the Island, when you can be out in nature. I think this place is pretty magical,” she said. “And what astounds me constantly is just how many people I’ve met on this island who are so curious and passionate in their own ways. People who want to be in deep conversation, and who have an appreciation for the community and are able to show up in such authentic ways.”
Much like the “both/and” view Ms. Ferrone inspires her students to take in her AP Literature class, she finds teaching both exhausting and rewarding. She said, “It tests my capacity for empathy, compassion, and kindness both to myself and my students. I take what I do as a teacher all so seriously, maybe a little too seriously, and that’s what I’ve learned too, how to show up each day not only with the intent to shape minds and hearts to the best of my ability, but also to try and hold it all with some lightness.”
This is a beautiful tribute to our daughter, who lights up our lives with her passion, insights, and presence. Thank you, Penny, for your observations and appreciation.
Pat Ferrone
Reading this piece in such a fractured and fragmented world is more than uplifting; it is inspiring, as teachers like Christine Ferrone are the shapers of the future in ways profound, that we who are elders have all experienced in the one outstanding teacher who made a difference. “…empathy, compassion, and kindness both to myself and my students.” What more needs to be said. Thank you Christine Ferrone for articulating the missing elements in social discourse these days. What an example for students and the community.
What a hopeful uplifting article! Teachers like Christine provide needed space and an anchor in today’s confusing world. What a gift to her part of the world.
Christine, this is incredibly moving and so beautifully deserved. Your students’ words speak volumes about the kind of teacher and human being you are. The compassion, patience, depth, and authenticity you bring into the classroom clearly leave a lasting impact far beyond academics. I’ve watched your grit and dedication for years, and I am endlessly impressed by the way you continue to show up for your students with such heart and purpose. So proud to call you my sister. ❤️