Teacher Spotlight: Faith, Joy & the Heart of Teaching at Saint Barnabas — Conversations with Two Inspiring Educators

In this heartwarming teacher spotlight episode of Saint B’s Podcast, host Paul Garcia sits down with two beloved Saint Barnabas Episcopal School educators: Mrs. Shannon Honeyager, longtime third-grade teacher, and Miss Elyse Ashwood, middle school science teacher and former SBES student. Together, they share their personal journeys into education, what fuels their passion for teaching, and how faith shapes their classrooms every day.

Listeners will enjoy stories of classroom life—from third-grade structure and cursive writing to middle-school lab experiments and Snapple facts—as well as meaningful reflections on joy, patience, mentorship, community, and the transformative relationships between teachers and students. The episode also highlights the special full-circle bond between Elyse and her former third-grade teacher, Shannon.

Whether you're a parent, educator, alum, or someone who simply loves great stories of teaching and faith, this episode is an uplifting tribute to the heart and heritage of Saint Barnabas.

⏱️ Time Stamps

00:00 – Welcome & Introduction

00:13 – Teacher Spotlight Begins

00:28 – Meet Mrs. Honeyager & Miss Ashwood

01:18 – How Their Paths Led to Teaching

02:28 – Passion for Third Grade & Middle School Science

04:23 – What Life Looks Like in Their Classrooms

06:19 – The Value of Cursive, Hands-On Learning & Safe Spaces

08:42 – Classroom Routines, Centers & Engagement

11:48 – Building Joy, Confidence & Relationships

14:17 – Growing Up in DeLand & Teaching in Their Hometown

16:32 – How Faith Shapes Their Teaching

19:37 – Lessons Their Students Have Taught Them

26:04 – Their Unique Teacher–Student–Colleague Connection