Falcon teacher and SCA sponsor Ms. Gillespie was recently named Teacher of the Year for the2022-2023 school year. She teaches Government, African American History, and Economics/Personal Finance; and is involved, or sponsors, a number of student activities within the school and community.

“I enjoy helping my students succeed and become a part of their successes,” Gillespie said.

Congratulations to our distinguished teachers as well: English teacher Mr. Goodson and Art teacher Mrs. Van Veenhuyzen.

Q: What class/classes do you teach?

A: ” I teach Economics/Personal Finance, African American History, and Government.” 

Q: What activities/clubs are you involved with/ what made you want to become the SCA sponsor? 

A:  ” I help with SCA, Step Team, and African American Positivity Club. I love working with kids and have a lot of respect for student government.”

Q: How did you feel when you were named “Teacher of the Year”?

A: “I felt surprised and excited.”

Q: What made you want to become a teacher?

A: “I wanted to help advocate for students who don’t have someone to advocate for them, and to help them succeed and become a part of that success.”

Q: If you didn’t teach, what would your career choice be? 

A: “I think I would be a public ambassador, or in public service to some extent.”

Q: How do you engage your students?

A: “I get to know my students, include stories from real life and build relationships with them.”

Q: How would you describe your teaching style?

A: “I would say flexible, engaging, and applicable to the real world.”

Q: What do you find the most rewarding from teaching?

A: “Being a part of students’ success when they succeed is definitely the most rewarding, and making connections with them.”

Q: What made you want to teach your specific classes?

A: “I am passionate about history and want minority students to feel seen and heard; personal finance and knowledge about handling money is a skill we all need.”

Q: What did you do before teaching/ how long have you been teaching?

A: “I worked as a nanny so I’ve always been working with kids; and this is my 7th year teaching.”