Q&A: Nanette 'Nan' Markman Passionate About Teaching

This Q&A feature helps readers learn more about Mount Vernon area residents working in our business community.

This week’s Q&A profiles Nanette “Nan” Markman, Lead Teacher and Director of Education, Epiphany Weekday School (EWS). The preschool, located on Old Mill Road, has been serving the Alexandria, Mount Vernon and Fort Belvoir communities since the early 1960s.

Nan, who has lived in the Mount Vernon area for 30 years, has taught at EWS for 11 years.  She received a BA in Early Childhood from William Patterson College in New Jersey, and holds a Masters in Education at VCU.

She and her husband have three children, ages 29, 31 and 32. All three attended EWS when they were younger.

How did you become interested in your job?

We moved here 30 years ago from Richmond. Back then, I was a full- time mom, constantly volunteering, and I was a Girl Scout leader for many years. I eventually decided to go back into education [Nan previously was a kindergarten teacher] and there happened to be an opening at EWS. It was in the pre-K room, which is my specialty.

Talk about what you do at EWS?

One of the best parts about EWS is that it’s local, it’s small and we have a very dedicated team-approach with the staff. So many people on our staff care about the school and put their heart and soul into the work they do there. EWS  has a “Fun”damental approach through play-based activities.  It’s a philosophy of  learning that enhances the  “whole child,” focusing on social, emotional, physical and cognitive development.

As a pre-K teacher, do you learn something new everyday?

In recent years, I have had a sign hanging in my classroom. To me, this sums it all up: “In this classroom everyone is a student; everyone is a teacher.”  I believe children help us see things with a different eye …and they help us remember. 

What do you enjoy most about your line of work?

The children’s’ excitement about everything that is presented to them. I love their thirst to want to do more, and how they express themselves. And, of course, seeing their overall progress throughout the year.

Where is your favorite place to go in the Mount Vernon area?

Mount Vernon Estate. It’s not just about the history, but the new education museum is so interactive and interesting. I’ve been very impressed with how it’s developed in recent years.

What are your hobbies?

I love to travel. I also like to read and cook.

What’s the last book you read?

A Tom Clancy book.

Do you have a favorite area restaurant?

I love trying new restaurants in both Old Town and National Harbor. Both have great views, atmospheres and variety.

If you weren’t in this business, what would you be doing?

Honestly? Early childhood education, it always goes back to that. I’m actually living my dream. I truly love what I do and I’m very happy with it.