17 Questions with Dr. Sandra Heard

Interview by Kaj Horowitz ‘27 and Brandon Mayrhofer ‘27

Dr. Heard teaches Advanced U.S. History in the Upper School. While she might be a new face on campus for some students, she is no stranger to the Potomac community. Years ago, she served as a dean and taught U.S. History, U.S. Government & Politics, American Civil Rights, and Advanced Humanities: Critiquing American Icons. Between her stints at Potomac, she helped serve children in the Washington, D.C. area.

Editor’s Note: This transcript has been lightly edited for clarity 

What’s something most people at Potomac don’t know about you?

That I went to Brownsville, Texas, one summer for the National Park Service to survey an old World War Two vessel because of my background as an architect. 

What was your favorite subject in school?

I would say math.

Do you have any hidden talents?

Probably not [a] hidden talent. I can dance a little bit.

What’s one thing that’s on your bucket list?

I’d like to go to some country in West Africa.

Are you a cat person or a dog person? 

Definitely a dog person, but I think cats are cute (just not in my house).

If you could switch lives with anyone for a day, who would it be and why? 

Oh my gosh, that’s crazy. Let’s see. You know who comes to mind? It’s so funny. Ariana Grande. I like her, and I just think she must have a fun life.

What’s one thing that you can’t live without?

Sleep. I love to sleep. I love to sleep long, long hours.

What would you say if everyone in the world would listen?

Laugh more.

What’s your favorite place at Potomac?

My classroom.

What’s your biggest pet peeve?

Meanness, when people are not kind.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?

Somewhere near a beach. I love the beach. I want to retire near a beach.

What’s your favorite TV show or movie? 

Oh, well, I love Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. You probably saw that already downstairs. This is one of my favorites.

If you could teach a subject other than history or ethics, what would it be?

A film course.

What do you eat for breakfast?

A lot of carbs, like bagels and scones.

What is something you do that you wish you could do more of?

I wish I could travel more.

If you could give advice to your younger self, what would it be?

Don’t worry so much. It’s all gonna work out.

What is your favorite season?

I would say late spring, early summer.

Welcome back to Potomac, Dr. Heard!