Have you ever wondered what your teachers were like before they stepped into the classroom? Beyond the lesson plans and grades, they once navigated the hallways of high school just like you. From teenage dreams and misadventures to the moments that shaped their futures, our educators have stories that go beyond their current roles.
A survey was given to our staff members asking about their teenage years and their past performance in school. 27/27 teachers that responded stated that they were good students who had a strong academic record and consistent attendance. Math teacher Mr. Joshua Locke reflects, “I was VERY grade driven, took lots of advanced classes and put my grades above all else – including my own health at times.” Mr. Locke’s experience helps us understand that while doing well in school is important, it’s also crucial to look after our health and well-being. Balancing schoolwork with self-care is a key lesson for all students. Though, Mr. Locke wasn’t the only one with brains, Bio-med teacher Mrs. Jennifer Abel states, “I was a top honors student with perfect attendance throughout high school.”
Although most of our teachers claim to have been good students, it doesn’t mean they were at all times… High school is a time filled with not just studying, but also memorable experiences and moments of rebellion. Before they were our teachers, they were students who had their own share of exciting and sometimes mischievous experiences. Looking back at their high school days gives us a glimpse into their lives before they became educators, showing us that they too enjoyed fun and adventure. Social studies teacher Mr. Todd Sams explains, “I was a good student in most classes BUT I failed every math exam in high school and got Ds for grades. I also successfully skipped a class almost the entire semester. I had a LOT of fun; it was the 80’s!” This quote from Mr. Sams shows us that while school can be tough, it’s also a time for making lasting memories and enjoying life. Though, not all of our rebellious teachers caused trouble at only school, as Mrs. Patricia Martini states, “[I got into] some mischief, but not during school (ya know, took my mom’s car without asking- had to live on the edge a little bit). Otherwise, it was fun and carefree.”
A great majority of survey respondents mentioned that in high school, they were involved in extracurriculars and sports. In Spanish teacher Mrs. Molly Hasenohr’s words, “Being involved in clubs and sports helped me to meet people and stay focused on school.” This shows that by being involved in these groups, she had a fun way to balance school and social life, which made her time in high school more enjoyable and successful. Mrs. Hasenohr wasn’t the only one who found high school enjoyable, as math teacher Mrs. Melanie Siemer claims, “I loved being involved in high school! I played golf, threw shot put and discus, and did the statistics for the basketball team. I loved volunteering and enjoyed going on missing trips during the summer. I was the editor of my yearbook.” Many other teachers explained how they were involved in school like science teacher Mrs. Helena Minasian who said, “I had a lot of fun in high school. I was full of school spirit and participated in decorating the halls before homecoming, going to football games, dances, etc… I played tennis for the school and was in a lot of extracurricular clubs like key club, French club, mock trial, model UN. I also participated in many of the school plays.”
In our survey, the final question for the teachers was about when they decided to go into teaching and education. The choices spanned from Elementary through College. The results were interesting and shockingly varied. Most, 42.9% to be exact, decided in College– not too shocking, as most teachers in America attended college with the intention of teaching. Other than College, the results were incredibly varied. 17.9% decided in High School, 14.3% decided immediately, and there was a notable tie between those that decided in Elementary School and Middle School. English teacher Mrs. Jones didn’t decide until after college, when she made a career change after working in journalism.
Students often forget that teachers were once in their position, facing the same challenges and pressures that we face daily. This means teachers can truly understand and relate to struggles students experience, offering guidance and support from their own firsthand experiences. It is important to know that teachers have a unique perspective, once being on our side of the classroom. They can empathize with the challenges students face, making their advice and support even more valuable. Understanding that teachers have walked the same path helps bridge the gap between students and their educators, creating a stronger connection and mutual understanding.
