7th Grade Team

Hello! I joined the Counseling Department at Gunston Middle School in 2018 after teaching 7/8th grade English here for one year. Prior to moving to VA, I was a middle school and high school English teacher in Pittsburgh, PA for 13 years and a middle school teacher in Brooklyn, NY for 3 years. I currently live in DC, so I enjoy taking long walks to explore different neighborhoods and to browse local small businesses. I adore animals and have two cats (Franklin and Eleanor) and a dog (Susie). I also love to read, so it’s rare to see me without a book in my hand! Favorite Quote: “My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive, and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor and some style.” Maya Angelou

Mr. Hiebert was a mechanical engineer for a few years, working as a field engineer for several archaeological expeditions and making instruments for scientists to use. Eventually, he found a part-time job teaching Lego robotics and realized how much he loved teaching. He got a teaching certification and came to Gunston, where he shares his love of science and engineering with as many people as he can. In his spare time, Mr. Hiebert enjoys running, biking, juggling, singing, and playing board games.

Hi!! My name is Anmol Patel and I am the 7th grade Life Science teacher at Gunston. I graduated from the University of South Carolina with a degree in Public Health, and then got my masters in education policy from George Washington University. I am really passionate about bringing fun, hands-on learning activities into the classroom and creating a safe space where students feel loved & important. Outside of school, I love to cook new recipes, explore local coffee shops and go to concerts (I've seen 24 artists in the last 2 years!) I am so proud to be part of the amazing community at Gunston!!