Mahika Ralhan ’26, Lilly Smolesnki ’27
Kris Aldridge, Upper School History teacher, has been one of the most inspiring educators in the EA community for the entirety of her teaching career. Through both teaching and advising, she has shaped the lives of students and faculty in many different ways. Aldrige teaches Pre-Modern History, AP World History, and AP European History. Additionally, she has advised the mock trial team and the debate club, Junto. After close to 20 years of teaching, she has developed meaningful relationships with community members, who speak the world of her.
“[Mrs. Aldridge] appreciates every day here, and the passion that she brings leaves an outstanding impact on EA. Her energy is unmatched, and her loyalty to her students is unmatched as well. She really understands that seeing kids outside the classroom is really important, and kids really seek out her guidance and help, even kids from 20 years ago. She really teaches them how to think, how to write, how to analyze, and how to be empathetic. The whole teacher, coach, advisor motto is something she still believes in. On a personal note, she is my ride-or-die.” – Anna McDermott
“I want to be Mrs. Aldridge when I grow up” – Anna Safford ’09
“During my time at EA, as a student and now as an educator, I have had the privilege of having numerous exemplary teachers/mentors. From teaching me critical thinking in 10th grade, expressing her enthusiasm for William & Mary in 12th grade, to now serving as a role model of generosity, kindness, and courage, Mrs. Aldridge has profoundly impacted my life. I know that this belief is not unique to me, as she has undoubtedly impacted hundreds of other students during her time at Episcopal. When we are younger, myself included, it is easy to think that all our achievements are solely due to our hard work. This belief only tells half of the story. It excludes the coaches, mentors, and teachers who helped us along the way. Having gained greater perspective, I can honestly say that Mrs. Aldridge was and is one of those people for me.” – Michael Whalen ’08
Photo courtesy of Hailey Deng ’25
“I have had the absolute pleasure of knowing Mrs. Aldridge for many years and I can honestly say she is one of the most energetic, positive people I have ever met. Her joy radiates and infects the people around her, making conversations with her without laughing nearly impossible. She comes to school excited to teach and engage with her students every morning, as seen in her daily ear-to-ear grin. We are truly better off for having Mrs. Aldridge in our community, and I cannot imagine an EA without her!” – Elizabeth Hershey ’25
“Last school year, I was barely finishing tests, and no other teacher really noticed it. Mrs. A did, and because she encouraged me to, I eventually went to an eye specialist. I was diagnosed with Ocular Motor Dysfunction, which basically means I can’t read that fast. I began a 16-week training program to help with my eyes, and now, I’m reading above average. I always look forward to her class, and she has helped me learn better.” – Trevor Cantlin ’27
“She lays stuff out in a very understandable way, and I think this year I am still really holding onto her words of wisdom and her advice for tests. I really like her method of learning history. She really cares about her students, and always says “hi” in the hallways. It really makes my day.” – Diya Methi ’27
“Her energetic and outgoing personality brightens up everyone’s day and in the hallways, you’ll always see her giving someone a hug or talking to someone. Even for teachers and faculty, she gives them a boost as well. She helps with many different clubs too, and she does a ton of things in the EA community that help her be so influential.” – Ivie Enakhimion ’26
“I love Mrs. Aldridge as a human being. Every time I see her in the hallway she gives me a high-five. She is so happy and bubbly, and she always tells funny stories. You have to work for the answers, but she makes it fun. She makes us think critically and teaches us writing and life skills.” – Ava Soroush ’25