Headmistress
Hogwarts own mystery within the staff, Headmistress Hawthorne, is still as stoic as ever, and still striking fear into the hearts of the weak. Err... I mean, she is still standing guard over the school and the education of the Hogwarts masses. Most would say she is doing an amazing job, while the others don't matter. Our own Flying Instructor had this to say about the lovely lady, "Regina Hawthorne... How do I begin to explain Regina Hawthorne? Regina Hawthorne is flawless. I hear her hair's insured for 10,000 Galleons. I hear she did car commercials... in Japan." Lovely words from the feathered man who's CLEARLY a fan.
This term brought with it not only heightened drama (no big surprise there), but also the Head Lady's own alma mater here to compete in the International Magical Pupil Standoff. Given the circumstances, the Headmistress definitely had her work cut out for her. All that aside, the lovely lady was willing to take a few moments out of her packed schedule to answer a few quick questions today. Thanks, Headmistress!
1. Using three words, please describe your feelings about this term.
Too. Many. Dramatics.
2. Was it your idea to bring the IMPS to Hogwarts? If so, what was your reasoning behind it?
Not entirely, no. Headmistress Moxley and I, both having strong connections with each school, expressed interest in uniting them in some way. From there, select members from both schools' staff teamed up and the idea of the competition came to be. And, as stated when our Ilvermornian guests arrived, IMPS was our way to promote and build camaraderie between the two sister schools while also showcasing the abilities of the students who were selected by the Book of Merlin to compete in the challenges.
3. How many foreign languages do you speak fluently? What led you to begin studying them?
Not counting English, I can fluently speak five languages -- French, Spanish, Latin, Gobbledegook, and Arabic. I grew up speaking French and Spanish, the former primarily. I took Latin at Ilvermorny as it seemed the most logical language to learn given its significant usage numerous areas of magic. When I set my mind on becoming a curse-breaker, I also added Gobbledegook to my list of courses. As for learning Arabic, I went to university and worked in Egypt for a number of years, so I managed to pick up on it while I was there. I also know bits and pieces of Mermish, though not enough to be considered fluent.
4. How do you find that the curriculum standards between Hogwarts (which is obviously the BETTER school) and Ilvermorny (BOOOOO) differ? And did you find it difficult to transition into the way Hogwarts works?
Hogwarts and Ilvermorny are pretty similar in regards to curriculum. There are a few differences in subjects and when they should be taken, but those are minor differences in the grand scheme of things. Another notable thing is that in Britain there are two major wizarding examinations, whereas in America we only stress out about JARVEYs.
As for transitioning from Ilvermorny to Hogwarts, it was fairly simple. Getting around the castle in the most efficient way, however, was a different matter when I first started. The staircases weren't always in sync with where I wanted to go.
5. If you could incorporate one thing from American culture or learning into our school, what would that be?
I definitely prefer the Prefect selection process at Ilvermorny. It is very much a democracy there as the student body voted on who their Prefects would be at the end of each term. Everyone had a voice. Needless to say, it provided an excellent learning opportunity about fair campaigning and politics in general.
6. What made you change careers from curse breaker to teacher?
In a nutshell, the birth of my daughter. I had taken maternity leave while I was pregnant with her and had full intentions of picking up where I had left off. But I found that being a curse-breaker and a mother simultaneously was very stressful and tiring. So I took up an available assistant teaching position for Defence Against the Dark Arts at Ilvermorny, which provided a healthy balance for me. The rest is history.
7. Would you care to address some of the rumors about yourself and Professors Hirsch and Myers being Dark Wizards?
If that's what a number of people believe without any evidence to support such claims, then the rumours about us must be true.
8. Given the circumstances, I would say this term was less extreme than last. Did you take any special precautions to hopefully keep children-stealing monsters from coming back into our school?
I'm afraid, no matter how many precautions are put in place anywhere, we cannot stop the unthinkable from happening. Nonetheless, our staff received specific professional development before the term began on how to act under such extreme circumstances. Our student leaders also underwent special trainings at the beginning of the school year, concerning the general what-to-dos and the best methods of defence should matters go sour. The staff and student leaders also combined efforts in their frequent patrols, even getting the ghosts to assist.
9. Often described as stoic, what is one thing that genuinely makes you smile?
Reading a book in a comfortable chair beside a window, rain gently pattering against the glass.
10. And last but definitely not least, ma'am, would you tell me what your favourite tattoo is and the meaning behind it? PLEASE!
That's a rather … personal question, Miss Umbridge. [sighs] If you must know, I have a bind rune tattoo of Isa, Kenaz, and Raidho. As for what that means, I think a quick glance through your Ancient Runes textbook would be informative enough. And before you ask: no, I will not be telling you where it is located.
This term brought with it not only heightened drama (no big surprise there), but also the Head Lady's own alma mater here to compete in the International Magical Pupil Standoff. Given the circumstances, the Headmistress definitely had her work cut out for her. All that aside, the lovely lady was willing to take a few moments out of her packed schedule to answer a few quick questions today. Thanks, Headmistress!
1. Using three words, please describe your feelings about this term.
Too. Many. Dramatics.
2. Was it your idea to bring the IMPS to Hogwarts? If so, what was your reasoning behind it?
Not entirely, no. Headmistress Moxley and I, both having strong connections with each school, expressed interest in uniting them in some way. From there, select members from both schools' staff teamed up and the idea of the competition came to be. And, as stated when our Ilvermornian guests arrived, IMPS was our way to promote and build camaraderie between the two sister schools while also showcasing the abilities of the students who were selected by the Book of Merlin to compete in the challenges.
3. How many foreign languages do you speak fluently? What led you to begin studying them?
Not counting English, I can fluently speak five languages -- French, Spanish, Latin, Gobbledegook, and Arabic. I grew up speaking French and Spanish, the former primarily. I took Latin at Ilvermorny as it seemed the most logical language to learn given its significant usage numerous areas of magic. When I set my mind on becoming a curse-breaker, I also added Gobbledegook to my list of courses. As for learning Arabic, I went to university and worked in Egypt for a number of years, so I managed to pick up on it while I was there. I also know bits and pieces of Mermish, though not enough to be considered fluent.
4. How do you find that the curriculum standards between Hogwarts (which is obviously the BETTER school) and Ilvermorny (BOOOOO) differ? And did you find it difficult to transition into the way Hogwarts works?
Hogwarts and Ilvermorny are pretty similar in regards to curriculum. There are a few differences in subjects and when they should be taken, but those are minor differences in the grand scheme of things. Another notable thing is that in Britain there are two major wizarding examinations, whereas in America we only stress out about JARVEYs.
As for transitioning from Ilvermorny to Hogwarts, it was fairly simple. Getting around the castle in the most efficient way, however, was a different matter when I first started. The staircases weren't always in sync with where I wanted to go.
5. If you could incorporate one thing from American culture or learning into our school, what would that be?
I definitely prefer the Prefect selection process at Ilvermorny. It is very much a democracy there as the student body voted on who their Prefects would be at the end of each term. Everyone had a voice. Needless to say, it provided an excellent learning opportunity about fair campaigning and politics in general.
6. What made you change careers from curse breaker to teacher?
In a nutshell, the birth of my daughter. I had taken maternity leave while I was pregnant with her and had full intentions of picking up where I had left off. But I found that being a curse-breaker and a mother simultaneously was very stressful and tiring. So I took up an available assistant teaching position for Defence Against the Dark Arts at Ilvermorny, which provided a healthy balance for me. The rest is history.
7. Would you care to address some of the rumors about yourself and Professors Hirsch and Myers being Dark Wizards?
If that's what a number of people believe without any evidence to support such claims, then the rumours about us must be true.
8. Given the circumstances, I would say this term was less extreme than last. Did you take any special precautions to hopefully keep children-stealing monsters from coming back into our school?
I'm afraid, no matter how many precautions are put in place anywhere, we cannot stop the unthinkable from happening. Nonetheless, our staff received specific professional development before the term began on how to act under such extreme circumstances. Our student leaders also underwent special trainings at the beginning of the school year, concerning the general what-to-dos and the best methods of defence should matters go sour. The staff and student leaders also combined efforts in their frequent patrols, even getting the ghosts to assist.
9. Often described as stoic, what is one thing that genuinely makes you smile?
Reading a book in a comfortable chair beside a window, rain gently pattering against the glass.
10. And last but definitely not least, ma'am, would you tell me what your favourite tattoo is and the meaning behind it? PLEASE!
That's a rather … personal question, Miss Umbridge. [sighs] If you must know, I have a bind rune tattoo of Isa, Kenaz, and Raidho. As for what that means, I think a quick glance through your Ancient Runes textbook would be informative enough. And before you ask: no, I will not be telling you where it is located.
Groundskeeper
He's big, he's burly, he's none other than Haraldur Baldvinsson, Hogwarts' own Groundskeeper and flying aficionado. Yes, the man with the feathers might prefer the cold, but he's got a warm heart, an endearing attitude, and an adventurous soul. Wondering what makes this man of the land and sky tick? Well, we've got the scoop for you. Sit back, relax, and get ready to explore the mind of our dear old-not old old-Mr. B.
1. Hi Mr. Baldvinsson, thanks for answering some questions for us today! Let’s start with a simple one. What do you like most about being the groundskeeper at Hogwarts?
Oh well yes, yes, of course. The best part of being the groundskeeper is having the hut. It has a fire place, you know.
2. You’re the outdoorsy type, that much is crystal clear to anyone with a working pair of peepers. If you could take off on an adventure right now, where in the world would you go exploring and why?
I'd pack my warmest fur coat and steer the broom towards Antarctica. Aside from Anver Island, there is a lot of unexplored land there. Plus, the weather suits me.
3. Hogwarts students aren’t always the most law-abiding bunch. What’s your punishment style for those who wander into, say, the forbidden forest?
Heh, well, entering the Forbidden Forest should be punishment enough... HOWEVER, the few students that wander that way will find themselves test flying the old school brooms, keeping the pathways from overgrowing or steadying the wooden bridge to name a few.
4. If you could trade places with any other staffer here at Hogwarts, which one would you choose and why?
... Professor Marchand has a bistro near his office with some delightful Madeleines. I have developed a strong adoration for those. So, probably Professor Marchand.
5. Being a groundskeeper, you’ve got an expert lay of the land. What’s your favorite spot on the grounds?
The hut. NO. The igloo. I mean, the hut. The Igloo. I... Let's move on.
6. If you could only eat one elf-prepared meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Madeleines. Or extra salty peanuts. Or Madeleines with extra salty peanuts.
7. If you were to be given a superlative when you were in school, what would it have been?
Oh, I did not socialize with the crowd that got superlatives and would not be able to give one to myself. Perhaps the students might hand me one someday.
8. What is one of your hidden talents?
I can play the lur. Hit that up in the library, kids.
9. It’s my understanding that you were a student of Durmstrang, a fine school indeed. I’m curious which house you think you might be in if you’d been a student here at Hogwarts when you were a kid.
I think I recognize parts of myself in every house but I think my adventurous side is very Gryffindor. Plus, the house colors match my favorite red feathers.
10. If you could offer any piece of advice to Hogwartians, what would it be?
If you're not sure where to find snow in America; Alaska local. HAHA. Wait. Don't put that in, that was a joke. Here's some better advice: If you're unsure whether the bludger is heading towards you or away from you, be on the safe side and just duck anyway.
1. Hi Mr. Baldvinsson, thanks for answering some questions for us today! Let’s start with a simple one. What do you like most about being the groundskeeper at Hogwarts?
Oh well yes, yes, of course. The best part of being the groundskeeper is having the hut. It has a fire place, you know.
2. You’re the outdoorsy type, that much is crystal clear to anyone with a working pair of peepers. If you could take off on an adventure right now, where in the world would you go exploring and why?
I'd pack my warmest fur coat and steer the broom towards Antarctica. Aside from Anver Island, there is a lot of unexplored land there. Plus, the weather suits me.
3. Hogwarts students aren’t always the most law-abiding bunch. What’s your punishment style for those who wander into, say, the forbidden forest?
Heh, well, entering the Forbidden Forest should be punishment enough... HOWEVER, the few students that wander that way will find themselves test flying the old school brooms, keeping the pathways from overgrowing or steadying the wooden bridge to name a few.
4. If you could trade places with any other staffer here at Hogwarts, which one would you choose and why?
... Professor Marchand has a bistro near his office with some delightful Madeleines. I have developed a strong adoration for those. So, probably Professor Marchand.
5. Being a groundskeeper, you’ve got an expert lay of the land. What’s your favorite spot on the grounds?
The hut. NO. The igloo. I mean, the hut. The Igloo. I... Let's move on.
6. If you could only eat one elf-prepared meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Madeleines. Or extra salty peanuts. Or Madeleines with extra salty peanuts.
7. If you were to be given a superlative when you were in school, what would it have been?
Oh, I did not socialize with the crowd that got superlatives and would not be able to give one to myself. Perhaps the students might hand me one someday.
8. What is one of your hidden talents?
I can play the lur. Hit that up in the library, kids.
9. It’s my understanding that you were a student of Durmstrang, a fine school indeed. I’m curious which house you think you might be in if you’d been a student here at Hogwarts when you were a kid.
I think I recognize parts of myself in every house but I think my adventurous side is very Gryffindor. Plus, the house colors match my favorite red feathers.
10. If you could offer any piece of advice to Hogwartians, what would it be?
If you're not sure where to find snow in America; Alaska local. HAHA. Wait. Don't put that in, that was a joke. Here's some better advice: If you're unsure whether the bludger is heading towards you or away from you, be on the safe side and just duck anyway.
Healer
Have you ever wondered what YOU would do in a hair emergency?
If so, then the Healer Challenge definitely showed you what you’re made of. Naturally, also regarding an actual emergency. Such as a man (with hair as black as ebony) fainting after taking a bite of an apple (sound familiar?) and consequently falling into the lake. Taking a certain Defense Against the Dark Arts professor with him. So much for constant vigilance. With the Healer nowhere in sight the students had to take it upon themselves to fish out the unconsciously floating - one Monte Bossa - and dramatically howling in pain - one Professor Hirsch - adults. While some immediately sprung into action to heroically save the wounded, the incident was a little too close to what had happened the previous term for others (notably Abey Botros) to handle. Eventually everyone was saved, however, and Healer Reed (who had been WATCHING the entire time, sneaky, huh?) complemented everyone’s ability to work as a team. And now everyone knew what THEY would do in a hair emergency.
Aside from an unfortunately aimed heating spell in Charms class, which left a handful of students with minor burns on their skin (and even face, as was the case with Miss Olivia Phillips), and despite the sudden influx of American students due to the International Magical Pupil Standoff, the Hospital Wing had been fairly quiet. That is, apart from the fact that a certain Herbology professor tried to borrow (read STEAL) some tea leaves from Healer Reed’s personal Herb Garden. Nothing a nice cup of tea couldn’t fix, however.
Plus, sharing is caring, right?
If so, then the Healer Challenge definitely showed you what you’re made of. Naturally, also regarding an actual emergency. Such as a man (with hair as black as ebony) fainting after taking a bite of an apple (sound familiar?) and consequently falling into the lake. Taking a certain Defense Against the Dark Arts professor with him. So much for constant vigilance. With the Healer nowhere in sight the students had to take it upon themselves to fish out the unconsciously floating - one Monte Bossa - and dramatically howling in pain - one Professor Hirsch - adults. While some immediately sprung into action to heroically save the wounded, the incident was a little too close to what had happened the previous term for others (notably Abey Botros) to handle. Eventually everyone was saved, however, and Healer Reed (who had been WATCHING the entire time, sneaky, huh?) complemented everyone’s ability to work as a team. And now everyone knew what THEY would do in a hair emergency.
Aside from an unfortunately aimed heating spell in Charms class, which left a handful of students with minor burns on their skin (and even face, as was the case with Miss Olivia Phillips), and despite the sudden influx of American students due to the International Magical Pupil Standoff, the Hospital Wing had been fairly quiet. That is, apart from the fact that a certain Herbology professor tried to borrow (read STEAL) some tea leaves from Healer Reed’s personal Herb Garden. Nothing a nice cup of tea couldn’t fix, however.
Plus, sharing is caring, right?
Librarian
Been to the library lately? Chances are that if you have, you've been impressed with Mr. Kalen Kennedy, our favorite librarian and literature lover. A man who believes that you don't have to leave the comfort of your own home to go on an adventure, not if you've got the right book to read. A belief that carries over to his book club, where he manages to bring stories to life in a way that engages and excites Hogwarts readers. We were lucky enough to look past the cover and learn just a little bit more about this man.
1. Hi Mr. Kennedy, thanks for letting us pick your brain! First off, if someone wrote a book about your life, which genre would it fall under and why?
You are most welcome, I'm glad to be available for this. Hmmm, it would most likely fall under adventure. My life has been quite the adventure up to this point, and I can't wait to see where this life takes me.
2. There are a lot of opportunities out there for a smart guy like you. What made you decide to become a librarian?
Hmmm, I had a few opportunities presented to me, but I chose to become a librarian because I love books and the journeys they can us on. Also I wanted to do my part to help protect literature.
3. Not everyone at Hogwarts is a literature lover. How do you get students excited and engaged in something like book club?
Well that's a good question, I try to make book clubs fun, for instance I took the kids through a wardrobe into Narnia, during one book club. Living the books, should help them get excited about it.
4. If you were stranded on a desert island, which three books would you want with you?
Only three? Merlin, that's a tough one, do series count as one? Because then it would be the Chronicles of Narnia, The Lord of the Rings Triliogy and A Study in Scarlet.
5. What’s a little known fact about you that students would be surprised to know?
A little know fact? Hmmm. Well I can speak Latin, not if sure that is surprising though. I have a degree in Astronomy. I wanted to be an astronaut when I was younger.
6. Which subjects were your favorite when you were in school, Mr. K?
I really liked Charms, Astronomy of course and DADA actually.
7. What inspires you?
That's a bit of a loaded question, one with many different answers. But I would have to say, being alive inspires me, I know that may seem very general, but when you have had tragedy in your life as I have, you realize that life is a precious gift. That gift inspires me to live and do my best every single day.
8. If students were to describe you in one word, which word do you think they’d use?
Describe me in one word? Hmm. Oh Merlin, I'm not even sure. Perhaps, quiet? Or maybe, lame? I don't even know!
9. Aside from the library, which spot in the castle do you find yourself spending the most time in and why?
Oh the kitchen! Easily, my niece bakes and so I'm down there spending time with her.
10. When you’re not performing your duties here at Hogwarts, what kinds of things do you do for fun?
Well I like to read, hang out with my family, pull pranks, be with friends, play the violin, hang with my cats. Normal things I guess?
1. Hi Mr. Kennedy, thanks for letting us pick your brain! First off, if someone wrote a book about your life, which genre would it fall under and why?
You are most welcome, I'm glad to be available for this. Hmmm, it would most likely fall under adventure. My life has been quite the adventure up to this point, and I can't wait to see where this life takes me.
2. There are a lot of opportunities out there for a smart guy like you. What made you decide to become a librarian?
Hmmm, I had a few opportunities presented to me, but I chose to become a librarian because I love books and the journeys they can us on. Also I wanted to do my part to help protect literature.
3. Not everyone at Hogwarts is a literature lover. How do you get students excited and engaged in something like book club?
Well that's a good question, I try to make book clubs fun, for instance I took the kids through a wardrobe into Narnia, during one book club. Living the books, should help them get excited about it.
4. If you were stranded on a desert island, which three books would you want with you?
Only three? Merlin, that's a tough one, do series count as one? Because then it would be the Chronicles of Narnia, The Lord of the Rings Triliogy and A Study in Scarlet.
5. What’s a little known fact about you that students would be surprised to know?
A little know fact? Hmmm. Well I can speak Latin, not if sure that is surprising though. I have a degree in Astronomy. I wanted to be an astronaut when I was younger.
6. Which subjects were your favorite when you were in school, Mr. K?
I really liked Charms, Astronomy of course and DADA actually.
7. What inspires you?
That's a bit of a loaded question, one with many different answers. But I would have to say, being alive inspires me, I know that may seem very general, but when you have had tragedy in your life as I have, you realize that life is a precious gift. That gift inspires me to live and do my best every single day.
8. If students were to describe you in one word, which word do you think they’d use?
Describe me in one word? Hmm. Oh Merlin, I'm not even sure. Perhaps, quiet? Or maybe, lame? I don't even know!
9. Aside from the library, which spot in the castle do you find yourself spending the most time in and why?
Oh the kitchen! Easily, my niece bakes and so I'm down there spending time with her.
10. When you’re not performing your duties here at Hogwarts, what kinds of things do you do for fun?
Well I like to read, hang out with my family, pull pranks, be with friends, play the violin, hang with my cats. Normal things I guess?