MMA's English Department Head: Bridget Burner

Woodstock, VA (Massanutten Military Academy) - Meet Massanutten's English Department Head, plus Track, Field and Rifle Coach, Ms. Bridget Burner.

 

Ms. Burner hails from San Antonio, TX. Living in Virginia since the age of 14, she has dedicated her time to teaching others. In high school, she helped teach other cadets through her NJROTC program, and during college was an assistant teacher for her Criminal Justice and Theater programs. Ms. Burner has earned two Bachelor's in Criminal Justice and Theater, a Master's in Teaching, and is finishing her Master's of English and Creative Writing. She is a devoted mother of a three-year-old, who is seen on campus frequently, and two dogs and two cats, who are all cuddles.

 

Ms. Burner accepted her job at MMA because it takes her back to her roots. Having completed a JROTC program in high school and an ROTC program through VWIL at Mary Baldwin College, the only all-female corps of cadets in America, she felt comfortable coming back to an environment like this. She taught for five years before coming to Massanutten and could see the potential of helping students who are wanting to excel academically and gain leadership training. She did not join the military despite thinking about it because she realized it would not help her accomplish her dreams. Instead, Ms. Burner served as a police officer for the City of Staunton out of college. She felt this unique blend of military insight on a civilian track with a career switch could help students who are at MMA but choose not to go into the military.

 

One of her key goals for cadets is to have them practice skills that will help in any profession. Critical thinking, communication, and adaptability are needed in any job and life situation. She applies this perspective to her classes and wants to continue expanding the curriculum at MMA. This past year, Ms. Burner was accepted as an adjunct professor at a local University to teach a Dual Enrollment class. This upcoming year, Massanutten will also offer a new STEM track titled Mass Communication, which will allow students to pursue a career in communication, digital marketing, or publication. Mass Communication is a track that Ms. Burner designed to have skills that apply to all jobs and walks of life but also allows students to have a jump start in the job market with completed resumes and portfolios of published work that will reach local and regional communities. She is proud of the progress MMA has made as a school and of the students who keep striving to be their best self.

 

Her favorite part of the job is her discussions with students. In her classes, Ms. Burner encourages group discussions on topics and ideas that help expand their perspectives. Students delve into deeper critical thinking. Her second favorite part is the connection with students. Ms. Burner has been a resource for cadets, inviting them to talk about their problems or come to her if they are struggling with classwork or life. She holds students accountable, both in the classroom and on the field, but also understands when life happens.

A fun fact about Ms. Burner is that she loves anime. There have been a few times conversations with students lead into discussions about the most recent episode of Solo Leveling, Dr. Stone or new anime dropping soon.

 

Massanutten focuses on character development, leadership and service to help your student develop to their fullest potential. Located just a few hours away from Washington D.C., our military boarding and day school provides structure to guide your teen on their individual path to success. If your student is interested in continuing their education at an institution focused on hand-on, experiential learning with small classes, please call our Admissions Department at 540-459-2167 Option 1 or inquire here.