Teacher Appreciation Week is a time to recognize the educators who make a lasting impact on their students. Whether through their teaching style, support, or the personal connections they build, these teachers shape not only academic success but also the experiences and memories that stay with students long after they leave the classroom. To highlight the importance of great teaching in our community, we asked students to share the teachers who have influenced them the most.

For many students at Southside Elementary, Mr. G isn’t just a music teacher, but a source of kindness and encouragement. When Andrew and Charlotte White transferred to Southside, they were nervous and unsure about their new school; however, on their very first day, Mr. G walked up, put an arm around each of them, and welcomed them with kindness. That moment was the beginning of a long-lasting connection, and even after completing his class, they still keep in touch. Mr. G’s kindness, passion for music, and dedication to his students make him the kind of teacher who leaves a lifelong impact.

For Nikolina Šupe, a senior at Riverview High School, Ms. Hufford has made a lasting impact as an IB Theory of Knowledge teacher. “She’s sweet and understanding,” Nikolina said. “She balances our workload with our lives.”Theory of Knowledge is a subject that challenges students to think critically about the nature of knowledge itself, and Ms. Hufford ensures that these complex discussions remain engaging and manageable. She understands the pressures that come with the IB program and creates a learning environment where students feel supported. Whether it’s allowing space for deep discussions or adjusting deadlines to accommodate students’ needs, she fosters both intellectual growth and personal well-being in her classroom.

Cameron Spanier, a senior at Riverview High School, says IB Spanish 5 with Ms. Sanchez is more than just a language class, it’s a space where students feel connected and motivated. “She makes an effort to relate and befriend her students, which benefits our relationship and students’ motivation in the classroom,” Cameron said. Ms. Sanchez goes beyond traditional teaching by building meaningful relationships with her students, understanding their interests, and making lessons feel personal. Her ability to create a welcoming environment encourages students to engage more confidently in class, pushing them to improve their Spanish skills while feeling supported. By maintaining these connections, she transforms learning into an experience that is both educational and enjoyable.

 

 

Mr. Zacharias has been the most influential teacher in Massimo’s high school experience. He first had him as a freshman in a career research class, and from the start, he helped Massimo find direction, encouraging Massimo to think about his future in a way no other teacher had. Mr. Zacharias believed in Massimo, even when hewasn’t sure of himself. When I Massimo started his clothing business, Mr. Zacharias was one of his first supporters, buying a shirt—not just as a teacher, but as someone who genuinely wanted to see his student succeed.  

Now, as Massimo’s AICE Media Studies teacher, Mr. Z continues to push him to grow. The advice on Massimo’s film projects has been invaluable, helping him create ideas and bring them to life. Thanks to Mr. Zacharias, Massimo created a final project he was truly proud of. Beyond academics, this teacher has been a friend, someone to look up to for his creativity, honesty, and the time he invests in his students. Mr. Zacharias’ influence has shaped Massimo’s confidence and ambition, and he knows he’ll carry his teacher’s lessons with me long after high school. 

To all the teachers who inspire, support, and challenge their students, thank you. Your influence lasts far beyond the classroom.