My name is Mark Peyton, and I’m looking forward to another exciting year teaching eighth grade English at Trailside Middle School.

This is my 23rd year teaching in public schools, and I have been teaching in Loudoun County for 13 years, with six years at Trailside.  I received my Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education, with endorsements in English and Social Studies, from Northwest University.  I received my Masters degree in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment from Walden University.

I enjoy running, skiing, and spending time with my family.  I spend a lot of time on the trails as I train for different ultra-marathons throughout the year.  Your child will soon discover that I am a huge Oregon Ducks fan because I am originally from Eugene, OR.  I grew up attending many of their games and continue to look for opportunities to attend when they travel near.  I live in West Virginia with my wife, Betina, and two children, Alex and Lucy.    

I really enjoy the academic environment because I love learning and being involved in the exploration of new ideas.  Teaching language arts gives me the opportunity to experience the creativity that students have to offer.  I enjoy helping students refine their communication skills so that this creativity is fully appreciated.    

I look forward to working another year at Trailside Middle School and helping continue building the kind of community that will allow all students to succeed and feel confident through these challenging times.  I am excited to meet my new students and help them have a successful year at Trailside.