Advice from Experienced Teachers

“What Teachers and Students Can Learn from Experienced Teachers”

by Evie Harrison

Here at Holly Springs high school, we have an amazing faculty with many teachers at varying levels of experience who teach multitudes of different classes. I surveyed over twenty-five different teachers and staff with over fifteen years of experience to learn more about what they have learned over the years and their advice to students and coworkers.

During the survey, I asked these teachers what their advice would be for teachers who have just begun their teaching careers. Overall, most agreed that for new teachers, it's important to be patient with yourself and open-minded. It is also critical to listen and learn from veteran teachers. Ms. Smith, who has taught high school sciences such as Forensics and Earth and Environmental Science, gave the following advice: “Take a year or two to just be a teacher. Don't pick up being a club advisor or join committees. Network with teachers outside of the building on social media groups. Last, focus on student relationships, especially learning names as fast as you can and find something in common with them.”

I also asked for any advice they would give to students trying to achieve excellence and a good school year. Most teachers agreed that it's important for all students to advocate for themselves, stay focused in class, and focus on time management while finding balance between work and extracurricular activities. Mr. Myers, who has taught multiple subjects such as PE and journalism, stated, “Balance is important. School is more than the classroom, and you can't get these years back. Take part in the extracurriculars. Productive is more than straight A's.”

Another question on my survey asked these teachers what made them want to begin teaching. Many had different answers, some ranging from them knowing they always wanted to teach to those who were inspired by family members, teachers, and coaches in their past. Ms. Rinehart, who has taught chemistry, answered that she was inspired by a past teacher of hers. “My chemistry teacher in high school, Mr. Polish. He was funny and down to earth, but he was a brilliant teacher.” On the other hand, Ms. Young, who teaches Psychology & Sociology, stated, “I have always wanted to be a teacher. I can remember teaching my stuffed animals as a kid.”

Last, I asked these teachers what they learned from dealing with the troubles of virtual learning during the pandemic. Ms. Huffines, who has taught multiple art subjects such as painting and AP Art History, stated, “Students learn best in person, but there are a lot of resources online that can make it easier for students to learn virtually.”

I would like to thank all the teachers who participated in this survey for their time in the teaching field, we are all extremely grateful for your work here at Holly Springs High School.