New Van-Far teachers ready to learn

By: Dave Faries, Editor
Posted 8/18/21

Although Dawn Taylor is a classroom veteran, her teaching career has some unusual twists.

She spent eight years at schools in Ralls County, another 10 homeschooling her children. And she taught at …

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New Van-Far teachers ready to learn

Posted

Although Dawn Taylor is a classroom veteran, her teaching career has some unusual twists.

She spent eight years at schools in Ralls County, another 10 homeschooling her children. And she taught at three different prisons.

"I actually liked it," Taylor said of the experience. "I never felt afraid."

Taylor is one of six new instructors at Van-Far's middle and high schools. While her background may be the most unique, all share a sense of anticipation heading into the school year.

"I'm super stoked," said Megan Ulrich, who will teach middle school communications arts. "The community is so supportive of the students. That's what drew me in."

Van-Far is Ulrich's first post, but she is already familiar with the area. A graduate of Clopton High School, she earned her degree from Hannibal-LaGrange University. She also did a student teaching stint at Van-Far. Three others are first time teachers.

Parker Pitts completed the education course at Central Methodist University and gained student teaching experience at Camdenton. He takes over middle school social studies duties.

Incoming music instructor Kristie Rossmiller wrapped up student teaching at Green Valley and holds a degree from the University of Central Missouri.

Both Pitts and Rossmiller expect to learn from the students, even as they impart lessons to the class.

"It's different when you are in charge," Rossmiller pointed out. She worked with her young musicians for the first time during summer band camp, which proved to be a valuable experience.

"It's been good," Rossmiller added. "I've been able to put my classroom together."

Deena Baber took a different route to the classroom. The new middle school science teacher earned a degree in psychology from Culver-Stockton and then served as the state's Children's Division agent for Audrain County before venturing into education.

"As I've been learning and getting materials together, I've been gaining confidence," Baber explained. "It feels really good."

Meanwhile, Steve Gschwender finds himself in a new role -- one that he welcomes -- after 15 years in elementary and special education. He will cover physical education, health and STEM courses for Van-Far.

Gschwender says he is happy to be free of the reams of paperwork involved in special education and is looking forward to forging active and healthy lifestyles. So Van-Far is a new world, even for the experienced hires.

Taylor, who will serve as middle school mathematics instructor, notes that teachers are constantly learning. Inmates at the prisons provided a number of lessons, such as how to reach people of varied education levels and help them grasp the concepts.

All six share in this purpose.

"Teaching is making an impact on future generations," Pitts said. "It's going to be a lot of fun -- learning for me and the kids."


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