Alumni Spotlight: Laura Waggoner '88
A Conversation with Laura Waggoner '88
September 22, 2026
Continuing our September series celebrating alumni who've returned to ESD as full-time faculty and staff, we spotlight Laura Waggoner '88, a Kindergarten Teacher who first walked ESD's halls as a student.
A Life of Meaning, Joy and Service
For Laura, purpose isn't an abstract idea — it's something she lives out daily in her classroom.
My idea of purpose is defined by the intentional dedication to a life of meaning, joy, and service that transcends myself, contributing to a greater good," she says.
Ask her what feels most meaningful about her work right now, and the answer is simple: "The children are always the most meaningful and important."
The ESD Foundation: Chapel, Creativity, and Confidence
Laura points to three specific influences that shaped who she became: Chapel, English class with Greg Randall, and art class with Kathleen Raymond.
These three things taught me how to be a good human, gave me a career, and allowed me to be confident in my creativity," she reflects.
That full-circle journey — from student finding her voice in an English and art classroom to the teacher now shaping kindergartners — is central to her ESD story. Her favorite ESD tradition is Lessons and Carols.
Education and Professional Excellence
- Undergraduate: Texas Christian University (TCU); B.A. in English Literature/Creative Writing
- Current Role: Kindergarten Teacher at ESD
Purpose: Sending Good Humans into the World
When asked about the best part of working at ESD, Laura points to what students carry with them long after graduation: an excellent education paired with kindness, care, and a sense of responsibility. "They are also kind, caring, responsible people... making their communities and beyond better," she says.
Outside of ESD, Laura loves cooking with and for her family.
Every day, our alumni are fulfilling ESD’s mission by making an incredible impact on the world. From innovative entrepreneurs to community leaders to creative trailblazers, their stories are a testament to the power of our community and the values we share. This series is dedicated to showcasing the diverse paths our alumni have taken and the meaningful work they are doing. We believe their journeys will inspire you and highlight the many ways our alumni are living lives of purpose.
Are you an alum with a story to share? We want to hear from you!
Each month, we feature a new Alumni Spotlight, and we're looking for alumni stories to highlight your success, purpose, and impact. Whether you've launched a new business, led a community initiative, achieved a personal goal, or made a difference in your field, we want to celebrate your accomplishments. Ready to be featured? Submit your updates and achievements through the form below for a chance to be our next alumni spotlight.
