Teacher Highlight: Ms. Elisa Goldstein | Speech and Language Pathologist at Barnesville School of Arts and Sciences
Kay'La Portee
For over 22 years, Elisa Goldstein has brought energy, creativity, and heart to the Barnesville community. She began her journey as a Contract Speech and Language Pathologist and, for the past two years, has served as the Artistic Director of our Theater Department — a role where her vibrant personality truly shines.
This year, Ms. Goldstein led the charge in bringing Aladdin to life on the Barnesville stage, pouring her heart into every rehearsal, costume, and performance. Her leadership in the Theater Club and Spring Musical inspires students to take creative risks, find their voice, and work as a team. “I’m not wonderful at sitting still,” she shares. “I need to be creating every day, or I get bored and unhappy — I see myself in many of my students in this way.” That connection fuels her dedication to helping students grow in confidence and self-expression, both on and off the stage.
What keeps her here after more than two decades? Elisa says it’s the wonderful community feeling and the way Barnesville supports every child. “Hands down, Barnesville works to build each child’s confidence levels in a warm and nurturing environment — with the bonus of rigor and welcoming diverse viewpoints
Elisa is also a proud Barnesville parent. Her son, Zac, attended the school before going on to the Global Ecology Magnet Program at Poolesville High School, then graduating from the University of Florida. He now works for Splunk/Cisco — and Elisa attributes much of his path to the kindness, green awareness, and presentation skills he gained at Barnesville.
Outside of school, Elisa lives a creative and full life. She and her family run Kaeli Creek Farms, where they sell eggs and wool products from their farm. She’s also a published author — her book “Elephant Eyes” is available now, and her second book is on the horizon. Known for her love of singing, dancing, and being silly, Elisa brings joy and light into every space she enters. Her motto? “Forgive, give, live, and laugh as much as possible.”
Also, if you ever need to win her over — sushi and chocolate are her favorites!
Thank you, Elisa, for sharing your talents and heart with Barnesville every single day!
Our teaching encourages students to explore how subjects relate to one another, helping them to make connections that spark inquiry and deepen understanding.
Skilled, Creative Teachers
Barnesville teachers have the freedom to tailor instruction based on individual learning styles to engage and challenge each child.
Collaborative Culture
We cultivate an environment of respect where students encourage and inspire each other and gain confidence in the value of their own unique voice.
Ideal Setting
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Barnesville’s strong interdisciplinary foundation prepares students for success in an increasingly diverse and interconnected world.
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Barnesville School
21830 Peach Tree Road PO Box 404 Barnesville, MD 20838 p: 301.972.0341