Teacher Feature
Teacher Feature highlights the diversity, expertise, and ingenuity of educators across the state. Submit your suggestions for a teacher to feature to Emma Epperly at emma@idahoednews.org.
Mackay teacher brings history to life with hands-on projects
At 65, Jess Johnson keeps students engaged with creative lessons, from Roman soldiers and homemade gas masks to a friendship sparked by a World War II painting.
‘Care, commitment and innovation:’ Nampa Culinary teacher creates community
After struggling through high school, Sal Soto never thought he’d return years later as an educator, helping students like himself.
Post Falls kindergarten teacher turns chaos into confidence
When Treaty Rock Elementary School Principal Katrina Kramer looks in Becky Thompson’s classroom, it’s almost always calm, orderly and collaborative. “Even her kinders know a strong routine and help each other,” Kramer said.
Opening minds and hearts: Jerome Spanish teacher shares power of bilingualism
Cheryl Schleiss found her calling decades after falling in love with language. Now she’s helping fourth graders connect across cultures.
‘What resilience means:’ Nezperce teacher returns after leukemia battle
Cancer taught Callie Zenner a lesson she now shares with her students: “You can do hard things.”
From first squeaks to success: How a Meridian band director built a thriving program
Mountain View High School’s Josh Barro says success starts with a simple formula: work, good, fun.
Sandpoint teacher creates ‘moments of great questioning’ in English class
Middle school, eighth grade in particular, can be a tough time in many teens’ lives, but for Danielle Packard it’s the perfect age to teach.
A Midvale teacher’s greatest lesson lives on in former students
Varina Pickett is retiring with a legacy: Two people she once taught now teach at the same small Idaho school where she built her career.
‘It’s just in your blood:’ Mother-daughter duo teach at North Idaho elementary
Students pass Mrs. DeVore’s noisy kindergarten room — then, a few doors down, do a double take. It’s Ms. DeVore’s room again.
50 years and counting … Twin Falls teacher has no plans to retire
She loves school and she loves the kids. And she’s the longest active teacher in Idaho.