This is Sarah Litterell, one of our CHS's Algebra 1 and 2 teachers. She has been teaching for a total of 7 years, 6 of those here at Claremore Public Schools. Growing up, she always knew she wanted to teach, but originally felt she would be best suited for 3rd grade. It was after she interned with a middle school math class she realized there was no going back! “I had the best internship with the best kids and mentor teacher! That led me to my first job teaching Algebra 1. I’ve learned over the years that teaching high school math is my favorite thing.“
❓Why Statement:
“People usually cringe when I tell them I teach High School Math. I, for the most part, had the best experiences learning math in high school and college. My goal is to help students learn, even if they think they cannot do the math. I want to be the person that shows struggling learners that they CAN do it with practice and effort! I hope that my students look back at our time together and have fond memories rather than cringe at the thought of their high school math classes.
CHS has a special place in my heart. I have been challenged in the best ways. I have felt support and love among fellow teachers, administration, and students. I feel like I can count on my Zebra family, and I am so thankful I took a chance to interview here.
I have so many teachers that impacted me. It’s hard to choose just one! However, Mrs. Owens (my third-grade teacher, who I later did an observation with) was extremely impactful. First, she was an amazing teacher. Second, I got to spend some time with her while I was studying to become a teacher. I loved watching her prepare for the upcoming school year, meeting her students, and getting to know them on the first day of school. It reminds me to always start relationships with students in a positive and fun way.
❤Teaching Mission:
“Teachers who love teaching teach students to love learning.”
“I’m not perfect, but I try to keep the learning environment as positive as possible. Teaching Algebra 1 and Algebra 2 comes with struggles, mainly for students who think they simply cannot do math. This quote reminds me that my love for teaching hopefully helps students buy into the content and strive to improve.”
#CPSZEBRAPRIDE #WHYWEDNESDAY