Hall of Fame: The Star Educators of B Hall

Walnut Grove unveils a hall of extraordinary educators whose passion and commitment have been demonstrated to shape students and foster a community within B hall. These individuals deserve a spotlight for the unwavering dedication in the classroom and camaraderie involving staff.
by Rylee Watson

B hall is filled with many inspiring individuals, like Coach Seale, Coach Fidd, Mr. Smith, and many other outstanding educators. This hall is a testament to the dedication and passion of these educators who have gone above and beyond to make a difference in their hall. Our educators find creative ways to instill values, foster creativity, and relay new knowledge within their students. B hall is known for the lively energy contributed by the teachers. Coach Seale described the hall community as, “very welcoming.” He continues, “ We’ve had people come and go, myself included, and the regulars have all been welcoming. Whether you are new or have been here since the school opened, they always make it feel like you are a part of the group and welcomed.”

Coach Seale spends his time creating lessons showcasing the ins and outs of American government. His passion for coaching and teaching was adopted from his past teachers and coaches that left an impact in his life. Seale’s classroom is very laid back and interesting. He shares, “I personalize learning for my students by using a variety of teaching strategies to try and maximize student learning and engagement.”

Alongside Seale is another phenomenal educator, Coach Fidd. Initially, Fidd was drawn to education because of the complexities inside a classroom. Fidd explains, “I wanted to teach so I could help young people understand their potential. I chose the Grove because it's a great place and the administration and teachers all have each other's backs.” 

The strength of the B hall community is grown from the many teachers who are or have been a part of the hall. Fidd shares what B hall does to keep the environment positive, he says, “A lot of us sit outside in the mornings and just talk about life and cut up with each other.  Mrs. Rutledge likes to put memes on the walls in the staff restroom to give us an extra laugh as well.”

Seale adds, “There’s a very strong bond for the teachers in B hall, we look out for one another, whether it's professional or personal, there is always someone willing to help out.” 

Moving down the hall, you'll discover Mr. Smith teaching world history and geography. Mr. Smith always believed education was his calling, but his path to the classroom was far from traditional. His story has traveled him around the world. He taught for 2 years overseas and 15 years in middle school in a different county. He spent 2 years in the US Navy, and about 10 years working for Chick Fil A. Then, found a lovely place here at Walnut Grove. He is currently in his 5th year teaching here. His background and childhood experiences allowed him to grow a major interest in education, “Both my parents were born deaf and while growing up, I saw how crucial good communication is and what it is like when it is not there... Teaching was what I wanted to do. As for what keeps me here, well, I love teaching, I love working with young people and I love history and geography.”

All the halls of  Walnut Grove are special, but each hall is made of different people and experiences. Mr Smith shares a wide range of unity with various teachers on B hall, like Ms. Baker and Ms Kennedy. He expresses, “Ms. Baker and I often have the same students since we both teach freshman courses so we have that in common and both Kennedy and Baker are around the same age as me so we can talk about common things.” 

B Hall organizer, Ms. Rutledge spends her time keeping the hall on track or organizes days when the teachers bring food or events. Ms. Rutledge helps the hall have a sense of community by planning and organizing different things for the hall.
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Special shout out to B Hall’s custodian, Ms. Melissa. All B Hall's teachers share a major respect for Ms. Melissa's hard work and dedication she puts in to keep B Hall sparkling. Mr. Smith shares, “When I am working late in my room, I know that I will see Ms. Melissa come in and tidy up and we will have a brief conversation.  It is a great way to end a long day on B Hall.”

Many teachers share the inspiration of Coach Gulsby. Coach Fidd describes Gulsby as “a master-mind.” Coach Seale adds, “Coach Gulsby and Coach Fid create a very fun and engaging environment for their students.” 

B Hall is not only an amazing scene of educators, but also a family of outstanding individuals who share a passion for education and helping others. Walnut Grove is proud of each and every hall, and happy to see the community and unity that has grown on B hall.