Mountain Song Alum Returns as Staff Member: Alexandra Niemyer’s Full-Circle Journey

“I am a firm believer in dragons to this day,” Alexandra Niemyer laughed, reminiscing about dragon-hunting escapades with her teacher, Magistra, during her fourth-grade days at Mountain Song Community School. 

Those magical moments of exploration and creativity left a lasting impression on Alexandra, one that has now come full circle. As the first Mountain Song alum to return as a staff member, she is bringing her unique perspective and passion to the school as a paraprofessional.

Reflecting on her time as a student, Alexandra shared, “My class had such a bond that we’re all still in touch today.” 

That sense of community and connection shaped her experience at Mountain Song. She appreciated how the school emphasized life skills, exploration, and connection to the earth, all while encouraging students to ask big questions about the world around them.

Later, Alexandra found inspiration from her uncle, a high school economics teacher who encouraged her to take a personality test. The results pointed her toward careers as a zookeeper or a teacher. Ultimately, her love for working with children, especially those facing extra challenges, solidified her decision to pursue a role in special education.

“I don’t want to work in a place that makes kids feel like they’re not part of the same society,” Alexandra explained. “Mountain Song does a really great job of keeping all students in the same classroom, learning the same things, in a way that makes sense to them.”

As a paraprofessional in the Special Education department, Alexandra now supports the next generation of Mountain Song students. She finds joy in the little moments, like when a kindergartner told her they loved her or when the children invite her into their imaginative worlds.

For Alexandra, returning to Mountain Song isn’t just a job—it’s a chance to be part of a community that values creativity, connection, and inclusion, just as it did when she was a student. 

“It’s the only job I’ve ever had where after I leave the building I still have a smile on my face,” she shared as she showed how her students decorated her jeans (a special treat!)

Her journey is a testament to the lasting impact of the Mountain Song experience and the magic that continues to inspire new generations.