Curiosity and Camille Morelli
At Newman, many students know Camille Morelli as a math, computer science, and economics teacher. What fewer people might know is that she also plays bass guitar in a band with her husband, Mr. Morelli, who teaches science.
“Pat has been playing music and performing for years,” Ms. Morelli explained. “A while back, he started his own indie folk-rock project called Dayes, and over time, he’s been doing more gigs and really wanting to build a band.”
She had already been interested in his music and saw an opportunity to join in. “I’d been wanting to get more involved in his music for a while, and joining the band felt like the perfect way to do it.” When it came to choosing the bass, she went with instinct. “Honestly, I thought it looked like the easiest instrument to start with. And I’ve always thought bass players are effortlessly cool, so I figured, why not? I’ve been loving it ever since and playing more and more with him.”
That kind of curiosity and willingness to try new things also led her to a major career change. Before coming to Newman, Ms. Morelli worked in data analysis, product development, and marketing. Over time, though, teaching started to feel more appealing. “It actually started when I found myself getting jealous of Pat coming home from school and telling me about his day. He always had the best stories, and it just sounded like so much fun. That’s when I started to seriously think about teaching.”
Since joining Newman, one of the most unexpected parts of the experience has been how quickly she found a sense of connection. “The biggest and best surprise has been becoming part of a real community. It’s so different from other jobs I’ve had. Everyone here is incredibly supportive, and I’ve made some truly amazing friends.”
She also enjoys the variety in her daily schedule. “I love the energy of bouncing between different groups of students and different subjects. I truly never get bored. Every day brings something new, and I almost always walk away with a great story to tell.”
In addition to teaching, Ms. Morelli also lives on campus as a dorm parent. “We have such a tight-knit and fun community,” she said. “It’s been such a gift to get to know the students outside of the classroom and build those deeper relationships.”
When asked what she’s learned from students this year, she pointed to the value of curiosity. “One of the biggest things they’ve reminded me of is how important it is to stay curious, keep asking questions, and not be afraid to get things wrong along the way.”
This year’s school theme of curiosity has been a natural fit for her. “I am curious about all the different paths students here will take, both during their time at Newman and after they leave. It is incredibly inspiring to be around so many thoughtful, creative, and driven young people, and I find myself wondering where their curiosity will lead them.”
That curiosity continues to guide her own path as well. “I’m always trying to learn something new or pick up a new skill. Right now, my focus is on playing the bass and getting into shape, but I’m excited to see what curiosity takes over next. I love the idea of constantly growing, learning, and trying new things, just like we encourage our students to do.”
For Ms. Morelli, curiosity isn’t just a classroom value. It’s something that shapes her life, her work, and her music.
