Dr. Sarah L. Hairston
Executive Director of Secondary Programs
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Meet Sarah
- 26 Years Experience
- Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis
- Ed.S. in PK-12 Educational Leadership and Administration
- Bachelor of Science in Speech and Theatre Education from Culver-Stockton College
- Certificate in Qualitative Research from the University of Missouri-Columbia
Dr. Sarah L. Hairston brings over 25 years of experience to education, serving diverse learners across all grade levels. As a classroom teacher, principal, and professor, she has cultivated a deep understanding of both public and private educational environments. A passionate advocate for individualized learning, Dr. Hairston empowers positive change through open communication, innovative solutions, and data-driven action plans. Her research is published in various educational journals, and she has co-authored several book chapters.
When you were five, what did you dream of becoming?
A teacher - surprise, surprise!
What’s one thing on your bucket list?
Visiting New Zealand and flying there in first class with my husband and daughter.
What inspired you to work in education?
I always knew I would be a teacher. At first, it was simply because I was good at “doing” school, so it felt natural to pursue something I excelled at. Later, it became clear that my real motivation was my deep hunger for learning. I wanted a career centered on curiosity, growth, and the constant discovery of new ideas. Teaching allows me to be the consummate learner and to share that joy with others.
What was your favorite book or story as a child?
A big compilation of old nursery tales, including both Mother Goose rhymes and a German book of nursery stories. My mother would read them to me every night so I could memorize each one by heart.
How do you love to spend your weekends?
Taking walks, attending an exercise class, watching football, reading a book, grabbing coffee, curling up on the couch to watch a movie, working on a puzzle, watching my daughter dance - these are typical weekends at the Hairston house.
What’s your favorite thing about being part of the CALE community?
CALE has the most supportive and inspiring staff I’ve ever had the privilege to work with. Everyone at CALE leads with the same core value: doing what is best for kids. This gives me the opportunity to build a learning experience I could never fully cultivate any place else.
Share a fun fact or hidden talent that might surprise us!
My first language was German, and by the end of second grade, I had attended seven different elementary schools across two countries.