Ms. Leah Darnell

With more than 15 years of experience in education, I have had the opportunity to teach English Language Arts across grades 7–12 in both Kingsport City and Johnson City Schools before finding my home at University School. I am also a proud two-time graduate of East Tennessee State University, where I earned both my Bachelor’s degree and my Master’s in School Librarianship.

I am passionate about helping students grow into confident readers, thoughtful writers, and curious thinkers. I believe books are at the center of meaningful learning, and I work to create a classroom where students feel encouraged to ask questions, share ideas, think deeply, and discover the power of a great story. Whether we are diving into a novel, unpacking a poem, or tackling a research project, my goal is to make learning relevant, engaging, and connected to students’ lives.

Beyond the classroom, I have worked with the Tennessee Department of Education for more than a decade as a teacher advisor for curriculum and instruction and have contributed to the development of TCAP assessments.

When I am not teaching, I am usually reading—more than 1,300 books and counting! I grew up in Kingsport and now live in Johnson City with my family and two dogs. I love helping students find the book that pulls them in, surprises them, or makes them see the world in a new way. Most of all, I want every student to leave my classroom knowing they are capable, creative, and full of stories worth sharing.

• Syllabus

  Click here  to access the syllabus

 

• Schedule

  1^st Period - 8:00-9:00
  Planning

  2^ndPeriod - 9:05-10:15
  Room 219
  Language Arts 8B

  3^rd/4^thPeriod - 10:20-11:30
  Room 219
  Language Arts 8A
  

  Lunch - 11:30-12:00
  Lunch
  

  5^thPeriod - 12:05-12:30
  Specials
  

  6^thPeriod - 12:35-1:45
  Room 219
  Language Arts 7B
  

  7^thPeriod - 1:50-3:00
  Room 219
  Language Arts 7A
  

   

My passion lies in helping students grow as readers, writers, and thinkers. I believe books are at the heart of all learning, and I strive to create a classroom environment that encourages curiosity, deep thinking, and a lifelong love of reading. Whether we’re diving into a novel, exploring a poem, or engaging in research, my goal is to make literature meaningful and relevant to students’ lives.