David Gulley: Following His Son's Joy

Assistant guide for the K-1 Doves Class

David Gulley's path to Headwaters started with friends who raved about how the school served their children well. He and his wife decided to see for themselves. They immediately fell in love.

Their son enrolled in the 2023-2024 school year as a third grader. The following year, David joined the staff.

What convinced him? "Seeing how excited our son was to come to school. Every day at pick up, he was happy and would go on and on about what he was working on."

David obtained his Bachelor's Degree in Studio Art and Art Education from Texas State University, and began his career teaching in Austin public schools. During his nineteen years in education, he has held many teaching roles and positions, including art, p.e., special education, small group interventionist, librarian, athletics coach, teacher mentor, and director of athletics. He holds certifications in K-12 Art Education, K-12 Physical Education, Early Child Care-4 General Education, IB, and Social Emotional Learning, and has worked with school leadership to create and implement programs for campuses.

His journey to Headwaters began while exploring school options for his nine-year-old. Friends had recommended Headwaters based on their own experiences, and after visiting the Creek Campus, David and his wife could easily see why. They fell in love with the Montessori approach to learning and knew they had made the right decision after seeing their son thrive in the Kingfisher classroom.

David then had the opportunity to serve as a substitute guide, where he experienced Montessori educational practices in action. "I knew instantly that I wanted to continue my educational journey here," he says.

Being both a parent and staff member has given David a clear view of what Headwaters does for children. "We have seen his academic and emotional growth skyrocket since he has been on the Creek campus. We attribute this to the amazing staff and Montessori curriculum, which has helped foster his love and curiosity for learning."

When asked what he would tell prospective families about why Headwaters is special, David speaks from personal experience. "Headwaters has been a life-changing experience for our family. Our son has flourished in ways we never imagined possible. I would recommend this school to any family looking for a unique learning experience that is fostered by knowledgeable and caring individuals."

David is looking forward to another year in the Doves classroom, ready to take what he has learned to strengthen his abilities as a Montessori educator. Outside of teaching, he enjoys creating art, playing soccer, making music, bird watching, traveling, being in water and nature, and spending quality time with his wife, their two sons, and two dogs.

For David Gulley, the decision to join Headwaters was simple. His son showed him the way, coming home happy every single day, eager to talk about his learning. Now David gets to help create that same experience for other children, watching them discover their own love of learning in the Doves classroom.