With English 9 teacher Susanna Ryan out on maternity leave, substitute Sheryl Ross will be teaching her classes for the first six weeks of school.

Ross attended Cabrillo College in Aptos, where she studied Jazz Theory, before transferring to San Jose State University in 2010 and graduating with degrees in performance for violin and music education.

Ross has worked as a substitute teacher for the Los Gatos-Saratoga Union School District for the past three years, teaching a variety of subjects. 

“I couldn’t ask for a better working environment,” Ross said. “Everyone has just been so supportive and I am thrilled to be in such a progressive, academic environment.”

Ross is also preparing to publish her own book about a musical that is packed with additional audio files of the dialogue, music files and sheet music.

“Because I’m involved in this writing project, English, poetry and the writing process [are] very integral to the work I’m doing as a writer as well,” Ross said.

Since she is prioritizing her six-week teaching assignment, she has since put many of her own projects on hold. Despite the sacrifice, she thoroughly enjoys her time in the classroom, where she gets to see the same kids regularly.

“I know I’ll miss [the kids] a lot when the six weeks are up,” Ross said. 

When Ryan returns, Ross will continue in her role as a substitute teacher, rotating around various classrooms.