Writer’s note: Teacher appreciation is more than just saying thank you for the education they provide. It is about reflecting upon the support and generosity teachers give to their students in and outside the classroom and noticing all the selfless acts they do for others. Science teacher, Ms. Cathryn Humphries, has greatly affected my life by always being open to conversations throughout the day, whether it be related to her class, other classes, or personal issues. She has provided me with support and always makes me feel smart, worthy, and able to accomplish anything. I would say that she has helped me find my passion in life for science and provided me with an amazing foundation to continue growing academically and personally. She constantly believes in and encourages me to push myself and put my all into everything I do. I hold so much admiration for her, and I am grateful that I was placed into her anatomy class and that I have the opportunity to have her as one of my teachers again next year for AP Biology.
The immense amount of time and effort teachers put into having a positive impact on students’ lives, both in and outside the classroom, is greatly appreciated and does not go unnoticed. The teachers of McNicholas High School prioritize their students’ well-being, along with helping them grow and manage a healthy academic environment with fun. The favorable influence McNicholas students experience from their teachers helps guide them through their lives and provides a strong supportive foundation for them to prosper.
Students at McNicholas find inspiration from their beloved teachers’ positive, upbeat attitude and steadfast encouragement throughout their four years. Senior Noel Shelly said, “Mrs. Nestheide has been one of the sweetest and most supportive teachers I’ve ever had. She gave me the ability and free range to express myself in art. She has supported me every step of the way and almost every project I have done is her class. I’ve gotten awards and recognition for my projects that I have done in her class. That wouldn’t be possible without her being there for me and believing in me. I truly will miss her next year when I go off to college. I can say that Mrs. Nestheide helped me find my passion and spark in art and in life that I needed.”
Junior Josie Fortin said, “Ms. Hudepohl and Mrs. Baum have encouraged me to be creative and try new things in every single class that I go to.” Junior Grace Chen said, “Mrs. Wells and Ms. Hudepohl both care about our needs and mental health before education, which I think is very important.” Senior Alex Dalton said, “Mrs. Wells helped me find my passion in chemistry and so now that is what I will be majoring in at OU [Ohio University]. She also has been a mentor for me when I was struggling with stuff that was going on in school and/or life in general.”
Junior Lucinda Thompson said, “Mrs. Noble and Mrs. Hudepohl both do extremely well at teaching their subjects and also care about us as a person and outside of their class.” Senior Natalie Jones said, “Mrs. Noble is always able to talk if I need it. She is very understanding and possesses an easy-to-talk-to personality.”
Senior Liz Cheevers said, “Mrs. Dill teaches in a way that formatted essays so that they were easy to understand how to write them. And when we needed help, she never made us feel bad about it; she would offer constructive criticism with her goal for us to grow academically and write the best essays possible.”
Junior Casey Frisch said, “Mrs. Wheeler would always push me to do my best and never let me give up when she knew I wasn’t reaching my full potential.” Senior Lucy Laudeman said, “Mr. Mulvey was extremely upbeat and constantly encouraging the class to do well. He always had a positive outlook.”
Students also talked about their teachers’ methods of instructing and how they manage to prioritize both learning and mental health through exploring ways to make class more fun. Senior Billy Meltebrink explained, “Mrs. Combs just helped me so much academically whether it was time management, problem solving, or helping me on work when I had extra time. She just was so kind, flexible and helped me so much through everything and I really appreciate it. I will miss her after graduation.”
Many McNicholas students discussed the immense support and encouragement they felt from teachers and how it has strongly impacted who they are and their passions in life. Senior Hayden Minnich said, “Madame Bungenstock’s patience, enthusiasm, and love of the French culture and language made me fall in love with travel.” Junior Bella Warren said, “Mrs. Games taught me that I should have fun in class while also learning.” Senior Francie Goff said, “Ms. Gaskins has taught me that creativity comes in many forms, and perseverance is the most important trait in hard times and to always strive for your best.”
The impact McNicholas teachers have on their students’ academic and personal lives inside and outside the classroom is substantial and provides the student with support and the ability to grow knowing that they always have someone who believes in them. Teachers can have a lifelong impact on their students’ lives and potentially be the instructor that made them believe in themselves and make a real difference in their lives.
The McNicholas Milestone 