Talented Teacher: Annie Hollett '10

When Annie Hollett ’10 graduated from Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School, she initially set her sights on the psychology department at University of Alabama. When she decided instead to major in education, she found within that department a small community of friends and instructors similar to what she always experienced at HIES. 

Upon entering Golden Bear nation in 6^th grade, she quickly connected with classmates and teachers. “I always felt like there was an open door with my teachers,” Ms. Hollett said. “They would gladly meet with students and it felt safe to ask questions. We really got to know the teachers and have a personal relationship with them.” 

She named Anne Jackson, David Heidel and Janet Silvera among her most memorable teachers. 

Ms. Hollett strives to create that same community atmosphere in her own classes today. After graduating from Alabama, she began teaching Kindergarten at St. Martin’s Episcopal School. Three years ago, she moved into the role of Early Childhood Reading & Technology teacher. She earned a Master’s in Reading Education at the University of Georgia. “It’s really fun to work with all the young ages and it’s rewarding to see them grow,” she said. 

Now engaged to fellow Alabama alum Chandler Snell, Ms. Hollett is planning a June 2022 wedding, in which the majority of her bridesmaids are HIES graduates, including sisters Sara ’08 and Kate ’12. 

Their shared experiences in cheer, tennis, social activities, school events and – yes – challenging classes created bonds in their class that remain more than 10 years later. The Class of 2010 reunion held in fall 2021 (rescheduled from 2020 due to Covid) was well attended. 

“At HIES I truly made relationships to last a lifetime,” she said. 

— Christina Mimms