Even before they were married, social studies teacher Jennifer Brown-Howerton and her husband already had the name picked out for their future daughter. And when they found out they were having a girl, they knew that it was perfect.
“I really wanted a name that was classic and not very common, especially working at an all girls school,” Brown-Howerton said.
Nola Mae Howerton was born on Aug. 27, 2012 at 12:35 p.m. and was 7 pounds, 11 ounces and 20 inches long. Brown-Howerton said she loves being a mother and spending time with her baby. She wasn’t sure what to expect at first but hasn’t had any trouble adjusting.
“It’s amazing how natural it all feels,” Brown- Howerton said. “So far my favorite part has been snuggling with my little peanut.”
While she is on maternity leave, Brown-Howerton said she feels her classes have been left in good hands with her substitute Becky Haden. Haden is enjoying her first teaching experience and has taken over AP US History, American Government and Lifetime Sports. Haden is a Sion graduate and enjoys experiencing the school from a different angle.
“It’s just been fun being back seeing it from the other side,” Haden said.
Haden has also taken on Brown-Howerton’s role as STUCO moderator. Brown-Howerton plays an important role making sure STUCO runs smoothly, but so far, everything has been going well according to Student Body President Hannah Tutera. However, the STUCO girls have kept in contact with Brown-Howerton and even did something special for her before she left.
“We made her a poster, and girls made an effort to decorate the teacher’s lounge,” Tutera said. “It was such an exciting event for her, and our student council group got a picture of baby Nola when she was swaddled up. Nola is our mascot.”
Upon her return to Sion from maternity leave, Brown-Howerton predicts balancing her work and time at home will be hard at first but that things should eventually all fall back into routine.
“We will all adjust and get used to it,” Brown-Howerton said. “Luckily, I have a lot of love and support from my friends and family which always helps.”