Recognition in the classroom: tales of teachers
By Olivia Kerber
Picture of Maria Ball provided by Owasso Public Schools
Within Owasso High School classrooms, exceptional bonds have been thriving between students and teachers. Between the busy lives of conferences, lesson planning and grading, teachers still make time to develop meaningful relationships with their students. There are a few different teachers that have stuck out to Owasso students.
Julia Osten (freshman) - Mrs. Ball
Student Julia Osten states that her favorite high school teacher is Spanish teacher, Mrs. Ball. Mrs. Ball stands out not only for her proficiency in teaching students a completely different language, but also for her unprecedented ability to connect with students.
“I can come to her about anything,” Osten illustrates. “She's always there to help whenever I have any questions.”
Mrs. Ball can transform language learning into something immersive where she makes genuine connections with her students. Ball has a unique ability to bond with her students because she is a Spanish teacher, and being in her classroom is a captivating experience due to her passion for learning and teaching a wholly distinct language and culture.
Osten puts it simply, “She's really nice.”
Michael Fraire (sophomore)- Ms. Dodge
Sophomore Michael Fraire affirms that his favorite teacher at Owasso High School is Mrs. Dodge. Even while teaching three different extracurriculars, Mrs. Dodge commits herself to her students. Mrs. Dodge strives to help her students achieve their most profound possibilities. Michael Fraire, who is in her Speech and Debate class, loves her for this reason.
“She always encourages us to be the best versions of ourselves and pushes us to reach our potential,” states Fraire.
Fraire was on the shyer side before being coached by Mrs. Dodge, and he thanks her for pushing him to feel more self-assured. Dodge has empowered Fraire and many other students to share their opinions with conviction.
“She taught me to be confident in myself, which is something I lacked before joining her class, and I truly appreciate her for getting me out of my shell,” Fraire Expresses.
Audrey Riggs (junior)- Mr. Shuck
Audrey Riggs, a junior at Owasso High School, claims her absolute favorite teacher is Mr. Shuck. While instructing advanced sophomore English, he is consistently intentional with what he teaches in his classes.
Riggs describes that “He has taught me [useful] information about English and has always explained his reasoning for teaching us the specific curriculum.”
Not only does Shuck prepare students for the future using effective teaching methods, but he is also persistently concerned about his students' well-being.
“He genuinely cares about his students and will always give you his best advice,” she expounds. “[He] gives emotional guidance.”
Natalin Willyard (senior)- Mrs. Leander
Senior Natalin Willyard is fond of Mrs. Leander. Regardless of how demanding teaching can sometimes be, Leander stays optimistic when interacting with her students.
“She is always inclusive with all her students. She always has a good attitude, and she is very enthusiastic when teaching,” Willyard states.
Leander makes students feel appreciated within the classroom, and her attitude towards her students is one of encouragement and upliftment. The impact Mrs. Leander has on students is one that will permanently shape them into kind human beings.
“She is very friendly and loving,” Willyard exclaims.
The effect of educators on young minds is a phenomenon that should be celebrated. The immeasurable value of student-teacher connections is one worth sharing. Teachers equip their students with essential skills and knowledge while continuing to connect with kids in their classrooms.