Our Team

Sally Rushford, a retired Pittsburgh Public School principal, has always believed that curiosity, kindness, and creativity is central for student learning. Ms. Rushford has worked in education for over 35 years serving as a teacher, a curriculum specialist in early childhood and literacy, and a principal.  The last 18 years as a principal has taught her the importance of teacher empowerment and development. When teachers focus on the child and the child’s need, real growth and change can happen. Children are deeply curious about the world around them and want a voice in shaping that world. A graduate of Hunter College, City University of New York and Carlow University, Ms. Rushford has specialized in understanding child development and learning.

This background in early childhood provided Ms. Rushford a unique perspective as a school leader. Working together with the Kindergarten teachers at Beechwood School, the team wanted to try out slowing down and thought about using Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. The teachers started showing episodes every week which resulted in excitement and enthusiasm from the students and deep interest from the teachers.  Wanting to talk with others about how showing Mister Rogers Neighborhood was changing teaching and learning practices, Educators’ Neighborhood began. 

For the last two years, Ms. Rushford has facilitated school leaders in exploring how the themes, purpose and values of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood connect with their own contexts. Meeting monthly online, attending whole group sessions and convenings, the school leaders have learned to listen deeply, slow down and notice, and spread kindness to staff, families and children.