When Ms. Fox walks into the gym, her energy is contagious. Described as happy, adventurous, and nice, she radiates positivity and a sense of fun that immediately sets students at ease. That upbeat attitude has been shaped by her experiences both inside and outside of school, from her years playing sports in high school to her adventures exploring national parks across the country.
Originally from North Port, Ms. Fox attended North Port High School, where her passion for physical education first began. She went on to earn her bachelor’s degree in physical education from SUNY Cortland and later completed her master’s degree in health education at SUNY Brockport.
While academics weren’t always her favorite part of school, she discovered early on that her love for physical activity could become a lifelong career.
“I always looked forward to phys-ed class and I always did well,” Fox said.
Reflecting on her student years, Fox wouldn’t say she was the most studious. That sense of honesty and self-awareness is something she now encourages her own students to embrace, finding what they love and following it wholeheartedly.
For Ms. Fox, the decision to become a teacher was deeply personal. Her father, also a teacher, played a major role in inspiring her career path.
“My dad was a teacher,” Fox said. “When I was younger, I would look forward to hearing his stories. When I got older, I knew I wanted to do something in education.”
Hearing about the impact her father had on his students made her realize that teaching is about much more than lesson plans. Teaching is about connection, mentorship, and shaping young lives.
Sports have always been central to Fox’s identity. During high school, she played field hockey and lacrosse, forming some of her favorite memories alongside her teammates. She continues that legacy today by coaching field hockey at Great Neck South, a role she’s thrilled to combine with her teaching position.
“I really wanted to work here,” Fox said.
Describing her excitement about joining the district, she explained that when she applied, she was shocked to get the interview since she had heard such great things about Great Neck. She also claimed that the district had an opening to coach field hockey at Great Neck South, so when she got the interview, she was especially happy that she can coach and teach.
Before coming to Great Neck, Ms. Fox taught in Manhasset, Clark, and East Meadow, gaining valuable experience across different school communities.
One of her most memorable teaching moments came during her time at Clark, where she taught seventh-grade physical education. She remembers encouraging one of her students, a talented athlete, to try volleyball. What began as a casual suggestion turned into something much bigger. The student joined a club team and eventually made her school’s team. Seeing that kind of growth, Ms. Fox said, is what makes teaching so rewarding.
Outside of school, Ms. Fox’s adventurous spirit continues to thrive. She’s an avid hiker who has visited 18 of the 50 U.S. national parks, a tradition that started with her family and continues today with close friends.
Her favorite destination so far? Glacier National Park in Montana, known for its breathtaking views and rugged trails.
For Ms. Fox, hiking is more than a hobby– it’s a reminder to stay active, explore, and appreciate the world around her, values she hopes to pass on to her students.
Now at Great Neck, Ms. Fox is excited to grow as an educator and coach. Her goal is to inspire students not only to participate in physical activity but to find joy and confidence through it. Whether in a game, a class challenge, or a simple walk outdoors, she wants her students to feel that same excitement she felt as a teenager discovering her love for sports.
With her enthusiasm, experience, and warmth, Ms. Fox is already proving to be a perfect fit for the Great Neck community, both in the classroom and on the field.
