The old adage, "As the twig is bent, so grows the tree..." visualizes the importance that early school experiences have on future interests and development.  I believe that each child is born with a particular affinity, or a  natural inclination toward something.   When the affinity is nourished, it serves to motivate the child to learn more and to seek out related experiences.  Learning is much easier when it is couched in a subject that a child is passionate about.  Charter Schools provide children the opportunity to capture and nurture their natural affinity.

Background:  Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education from UW-Madison, Master's Degree in Reading from UW-Madison, General Science Certification from U-Whitewater and Educational Administration Degree from Marian College.  Mrs. Sewell taught kindergarten and Grade Six Science in Columbus and is presently the principal of Columbus Elementary, as well as Co-Principal of Discovery Charter School.

Mrs. Sewell has lived in the Columbus School District for 34 years.  She has two grown children and a boxer named Niko.  Mr. Sewell is retired from the Dane County Sheriff's Department and helps out with many school projects.  Mrs. Sewell has enjoyed many science-related experiences such as traveling aboard a research vessel studying hydrothermal vents, working with Robert Ballard's JASON project in the Channel Islands, exploring the rainforests of Costa Rica, and working with teachers in South Africa on environmental projects.

Mrs. Sewell spent her youth on a dairy farm caring for the animals and out exploring the woodlands and creeks.  She enjoys reading, exercising and gardening.