Hall of Fame: The Star Educators of C hall

C Hall is overflowing with several inspiring educators like Coach Ham, Mrs. Roberts, Mrs. Hagler, Ms. Bond, and Ms. Peterson, along with many others. This collective hall works so well together because of the fostered community and overwhelming camaraderie within the hall.
by Mariana Castaneda and Rylee Watson

This hall is a testament to the passion of each educator who has gone above and beyond to make a difference. C Hall has done an outstanding job adopting ways to keep lessons creative and fun, all while keeping students on track for the end of the year. “I feel like [all the teachers] look out for each other... We are all a family at Walnut Grove,” shared Ham.
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Coach Ham spends his time teaching juniors and seniors all about physics. His classroom is always filled with a lively energy, and his students are building and working together on all types of projects. When Ham isn’t in the classroom, he is either on the green guiding WG’s golf team, or on the softball field running drills with the Lady Warriors. Initially, Ham was involved in the medical field before having an interest in education. He expresses, “My wife was the one who suggested becoming a teacher. Coaching was the first reason I wanted to become a teacher, but as time has passed, helping teach students how to be successful in life has been a great reason for me to stay, along with coaching.”

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​Up the hall from Ham lies another extraordinary teacher, Mrs. Roberts. Her classroom fosters an energy like no other, always prioritizing her students’ curiosity and growth involving biology. Mrs. Roberts embodies the essence of a vocation fulfilled. She shared, “I have always wanted to be a teacher... since I was in first grade... I believe teaching is a calling and this is where I am meant to be. If I can help raise humans that will go into the world to be good moms, dads, bosses, employers, and friends... then I've done my job.”

What makes Walnut Grove's staff different is the tight-knit community each of our staff members strives to expand. Roberts explains, “Walnut Grove is a family environment. The Science Department works so well together, and we all encourage each other and work hard to make sure everyone feels loved. I love that I can teach without worrying about being micromanaged. The kids are so fun and the families are very supportive!”

​Beyond Mrs. Roberts's dedication, her collaboration with Mrs. Preston in the biology department fosters a supportive and uplifting daily work environment for both educators. “Mrs. Preston and I teach Biology together, and being next-door neighbors helps tremendously. We share ideas and thoughts about lessons and how to make the information more attainable for all of our students,” shared Roberts.

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Mrs. Peterson has been teaching at WGHS for three years and has been coaching here for four years. She has taught Environmental Science, Zoology, Biology, and now Physics, while also coaching JV girls' soccer! Mrs. Peterson says she has always loved teaching since she was young, saying how she used to play “school” with a chalkboard and stuffed animals. Mrs. Peterson also mentions how she enjoys building relationships with students, and says she loves being a part of something here at WGHS.
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Mrs. Peterson says the teamwork on C Hall has influenced her teaching. “I love the sense of community on our hallway... we’re a TEAM,” she said. She also supports other teachers on C Hall by “creating and sharing content resources, covering classes when needed, and jumping in when a coworker needs assistance.” Teachers who have influenced Peterson include Coach Ham and Mrs. Bermudez. She admires how both teachers have built relationships with the students and care about them! Peterson also brought up the way Antwine and Belflower challenge their students and help them learn in a natural way!

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C Hall is not only an amazing scene of educators, but also a family of phenomenal individuals who share a passion for education and create such a well-rounded environment for students and staff. The dedication of these educators fosters a supportive environment where students and staff thrive. Ultimately, C Hall stands as a testament to the power of community and the transformative impact it can have.

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