Hayley Derryberry
Teacher
Hayley is a dedicated early childhood educator at the German International School of Austin, bringing a rich blend of academic expertise, cultural passion, and nurturing care to her classroom. A cum laude graduate from the University of Maryland, with a Bachelor of Arts in Germanic Studies, Hayley also holds an Associate of Arts in Theater. Her academic achievements include the prestigious Prahl Fellowship, membership in the National German Honors Society, and a Certificate of Excellence in German from the Goethe Institute in Washington, D.C. As a teaching assistant for German 101 at UMD and president of the university’s German Club, she developed a deep commitment to fostering language and cultural appreciation.
Hayley’s love for German culture began in childhood with Swiss chocolates sent by her aunt in Liechtenstein and grew through a high school exchange year in Erfurt, Germany. She later served three years as marketing coordinator for Alpine Village in Torrance, California, a German cultural hub hosting the West Coast’s largest Oktoberfest.
As a mother to her daughters, Billie Jean and Emmalene, who attend GIS, Hayley brings empathy and patience to her teaching,. With a decade of experience as a professional actor and filmmaker in film and television, she infuses her classroom with creativity, fostering wonder and exploration through play-based learning. Hayley believes emotional health is the foundation of early education, ensuring children thrive as curious, confident learners. Her joyful, inclusive approach creates a warm, nurturing environment where every child can grow into their best self.