Sean joined Vermont Academy in 2021 as a math teacher, returning to Vermont after many years in Texas. While his path to the classroom was anything but traditional, each step along the way has contributed to the dynamic and creative approach he brings to his work with students.

Sean studied radio, television, and film at Temple University, where he explored a range of creative outlets including student film, acting, and radio. His early interest in storytelling and music led him to volunteer at a public radio station in Los Angeles, deepening his appreciation for performance and sound.

Before entering education, Sean spent time living and working in Los Angeles and later working construction in Northern California, Texas and Vermont. While working construction in Vermont, he spent his time off at a record shop in Brattleboro. It was there that a chance connection encouraged him to consider a career in education, setting him on a new path. He began working as a paraprofessional and later as a teacher at The Kindle Farms School, gaining valuable early experience in the field.

After moving to Austin, Texas to raise his family, Sean earned his teaching license and went on to spend sixteen years teaching in Austin. During that time, he worked at William B. Travis High School and the Headwaters School, developing his skills as an educator and building lasting connections with students. In 2021, he returned to Vermont and became part of the Vermont Academy community.

At Vermont Academy, Sean’s work extends beyond the math classroom. He incorporates woodworking into his teaching, creating opportunities for students to build, problem solve, and think creatively. Through this hands-on approach, he helps foster ingenuity and encourages students to engage with learning in new ways.

Sean is also deeply involved in athletics, having coached lacrosse, junior varsity and varsity girls’ soccer, and basketball, while contributing to strength and conditioning programs and intramurals. His presence across multiple areas of campus allows him to connect with students in a variety of settings, something he values highly.

He says one of the most rewarding aspects of his role is the ability to build meaningful relationships with students. Whether in the classroom, the woodshop, or on the field, Sean emphasizes a balance of support, honesty, and direct communication. He also values the collaborative nature of the faculty community, noting a shared commitment to helping students succeed.

Sean’s connection to Vermont Academy extends beyond his role as a teacher. Along with wife and Director of Admissions and Enrollment Management Nora Dock, they are parents to three Vermont Academy students and have experienced the school from multiple perspectives. Their daughter, Amalia ’22, embraced campus life and earned the opportunity to speak at her commencement as salutatorian. Their son Cole ’24 explored interests such as photography, snowboarding, and VASA, while Yehoon ’28 has become involved in activities ranging from Chamber Ensemble to rock climbing. Through his children’s experiences, Sean has seen firsthand how the school supports students in discovering and developing their passions.

Outside of school, Sean enjoys a quieter pace of life, spending time reading, building, and being with his family and dogs. Earlier in his career, he also worked as a DJ, performing at a variety of events, including roller derby competitions in Austin. His connection to that community came through his wife Nora.