Get to know Washington’s new teachers

WASHINGTON — With the school year kicking off on Tuesday, students weren’t the only ones marking their first days in the Washington district. Many teachers across the district are calling Washington home room for the first time this week.

Those educators answered a handful of questions about who they were, how they taught, and how they were feeling for the Journal.

Why did you decide to become a teacher?

“When I was very young, I used to sit my little brother with my stuffed animals and teach them something on my little whiteboard. As I grew older, gaining experience and understanding, I knew for a fact that I wanted to be able to impact students' lives the same way that my teachers impacted me. The fact that I am teaching a subject that I love is just the cherry on top!”

— Liz Hammel: ELA teacher

What made you decide to teach in Washington, specifically?

“I wanted a change of scenery, and it got me closer to Iowa City for the Hawkeyes.”

— Kirk Kronaizl: Geometry and Algebra

What's one educator that really made an impact on you? Why?

“Mr. Brian Stone. He was my sixth grade teacher, my basketball coach, my principal and my co-worker. He is always a listening ear, offers honest advice, and has always pushed me to my potential in all areas of my life.”

— Emily Ellis: Middle School Nurse

What’s your biggest accomplishment? What’s a little accomplishment you’re still really proud of?

“I have two bachelor’s degrees, a master’s degree, and an additional graduate program certificate. This past year, I made my first quilt.”

— Lydia Davis: Chemistry, Biology, and Advanced Chemistry

What makes a good teacher?

“A good teacher is someone who is able to form a strong relationship with each student. They are able to make each student feel important. They use the student’s likes and dislikes to help mold lessons directly to each student. At the end of each day, the student leaves the classroom knowing they are cared about.”

— Amy Statler: 3-year-old preschool

What makes a good student?

"A good student is one who has the courage to take risks — which results in making mistakes and sometimes failure — but ultimately rebounds from those mistakes to learn from them.“

— Andrew Carbajal: Special Education

What was your favorite book/movie/piece of media at the age you're teaching? What is it now?

“I loved Bugs Bunny when I was in kindergarten through second grade and I still do. Now, I like SpongeBob too.”

— Dave Watson: K-2 Music

What's something you enjoy that's more typical of the generation you're teaching than your own?

“Playing Jeopardy or Blooklets as a review activity.”

— Ben Felderman: 7th Grade Math

What’s the most trouble you got into when you were a student?

“I would never do anything to get in trouble … and if I did I certainly wouldn't tell on myself!”

— Clay Eaton: Stewart Elementary P.E.

Comments: Kalen.McCain@southeastiowaunion.com