School: Meeker Public Schools

Grade: 9th

Subject: Agricultural Education

Career Length: 4 years

Current Position: 4 years

Favorite Thunder player: Lindy Waters III

Why did you choose to become an educator?

I chose to become an agricultural education instructor for several reasons. First, I want to provide students with the same Ag-Ed and FFA experience that I had when I was in high school. Next, I am extremely passionate about students going into life being agriculturally literate and understanding where their food comes from and how it is produced. Finally, I want to instill character traits in students such as work ethic, responsibility, and integrity to help them leave my class college or career ready.

Who is/was the most influential person in your career?

As much as I wish I could narrow this down to one person, it has to be the three agricultural education instructors that I had when I was in high school - Blake Collier, Phillip Major, and Brent Haken. These three educators not only taught me about agriculture, but they also taught me about those same character traits that I strive to instill in my students. Coming from a split household, my agricultural educators helped fill the void when my mother or father could not. Their compassion, wisdom, and willingness to invest in me as a kid are without a doubt some of the reasons that I have experienced success in the classroom as a teacher.

What words of advice would you give to young Thunder fans regarding the importance of education?

My mother who is also an educator repeatedly told me this phrase growing up. "Education is the one thing that no one can ever take away from you". My advice to young Thunder fans would be to value your educational experience. Use this time to learn about what makes our world go round. Learn about how society functions. Learn about the challenges in our world that you are not okay with, and finally, learn how to enact solutions to those challenges. Your actions matters. It is up to you to use your educational opportunities to learn how to make choices that have a positive outcome for everyone involved!

School: Seminole High School

Grade: 12th

Subject: Band Director Grades 4-12

Career Length: 32 years

Current Position: 28 years

Favorite Thunder player: Chet Holmgren

Why did you choose to become an educator?

I wanted to pass the love of music on to young people.

Who is/was the most influential person in your career?

The most influential person in my career was my middle school band director, Mr. James Copeland. He helped me see my future potential.

What words of advice would you give to young Thunder fans regarding the importance of education?

As a band director, I always encourage students to stay in band. I let them know how band can pay for your college education as it did mine.

School: Ada High School

Grade: 11th

Subject: Advanced Placement Language and Composition, Mock Trial, and Humanities 1

Career Length: 19 years

Current Position: 6 years

Favorite Thunder player: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Why did you choose to become an educator?

I chose to become an Oklahoma teacher because Oklahoma's most valuable resource is our children. I believe the greatest influence that I can have and the greatest difference that I can make in my state and local community rests in my ability and dedication to help students learn and grow into competent, caring, community members. In fact, that is the vision of Ada High School. I serve alongside a team of teachers who work diligently every day in order to change the future of each student who walks through our doors. Together, we have the opportunity to shape the future of Oklahoma, one student at a time. And they are worth it!

Who is/was the most influential person in your career?

The most influential person in my teaching career has been my husband of 31 years, Pastor Jimmy Keith. He has given me moral support, painted multiple classrooms each time I moved rooms, rebuilt bookshelves, helped decorate notebooks, and let me voice my frustrations whenever necessary over the past 19 years. While I've had many strong teacher mentors, the support of my husband over the years has been the rock that helped me keep going. Teaching is hard. The long hours grading essays often required me to work late into the evening hours, even at home, but he never seemed to mind picking up the slack when necessary so that I could finish the job. Every teacher needs a strong support system, and his support has kept me in the classroom through all the ups and downs.

What words of advice would you give to young Thunder fans regarding the importance of education?

Never quit dreaming and never quit reading. Our dreams give us the energy to try new things and discover new ideas. But those dreams can't become a reality on their own. A solid education gives us the resources to read our way to our dreams. Reading just one book, magazine, journal, or newspaper each month about our dream job or career path will give us the growth mindset and incentive necessary to push ourselves a little more and a little more toward our goal. Our education gives us the wings for our dreams to take flight. So keep dreaming and keep reading!

School: Piedmont Public Schools

Grade: 4th

Subject: LEAP (Gifted & Talented 2nd-4th grade)

Career Length: 10 years

Current Position: 3 years

Why did you choose to become an educator?

In my classroom I consider myself to be the “ lead learner.” Teaching allows me to grow and challenge myself daily. I strive to instill that same love of learning in my students. Together, we create, discover, question, and explore the world around us.

Who is/was the most influential person in your career?

My Grandma! Even though I didn’t know I wanted to teach when I was a child, she nurtured my love of learning and always pushed me to search for the answers to my questions.

What words of advice would you give to young Thunder fans regarding the importance of education?

Learning is a lifelong pursuit. Find a career or a path that encourages your curiosity and nurtures your drive to learn more.

School: FD Moon Middle School

Grade: 8th

Subject: English Language Arts

Career Length: 14 years

Current Position: 3 years

Favorite Thunder player: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Why did you choose to become an educator?

I chose to become a teacher because I wanted to have an impact on the outcomes of students. Like myself, I have dreams, hopes and desires, many of which were made possible through great teachers I’ve had throughout my life. I want to be that for kids and teach them the values of leadership, citizenship and service in order to prepare them for life as adults in our society. Teaching also gives me time to be with my family and model for my own kids the importance of education and going all in on your passion.

Who is/was the most influential person in your career?

My high school yearbook teacher, Ms. Deena Thomas, believed in me like no one ever has and encouraged me to pursue my dream of becoming a journalist. That led to me attending Oklahoma State University and becoming the first in my family to graduate from college. Now 14 years later, I’ve been selected as the teacher of the year for Oklahoma City Public Schools.

What words of advice would you give to young Thunder fans regarding the importance of education?

You don’t have to wait to graduate to be great, you just have to participate! You can be great right now and that greatness can be found in the service of others. Find a way to give back in real time because purpose is essential to your well-being. Find your purpose and it will keep you on the right path.

School: Coolidge Elementary – Enid Public Schools

Grade: Pre-K

Subject: All subjects

Career Length: 19 years

Current Position: 6 years

Favorite Thunder player: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Why did you choose to become an educator?

I have always loved working with children. I come from a long line of teachers in my family,
] and I guess you could say with is in my blood. Children are so fun and bring such goodness to our lives. They bring a spark and love for life that I always hope to hang onto. I became a teacher mainly to inspire children to see the best in themselves despite some possible negative circumstances around them. I want them to understand that they are created for greatness and are capable of reaching any goals they set in their life. I want children to feel safe, loved, and encouraged to be brave in their learning. As a mother of two children with dyslexia, I am beyond overjoyed that I chose to become a teacher. I have a real heart for all students but especially the student that struggles. Through working with my personal children, learning from colleagues, and various years of teaching experience; I know that I am right where I was created to be. I have a lot to still learn but I have the greatest joy in being a teacher for young learners. This is a life I do not regret.

Who is/was the most influential person in your career?

Jesus Christ is my most influential person in my career along with my mother, Judy Blankenship who was a middle school and elementary teacher for many years. Through the bible, I have come to know how Jesus taught others. He taught through love and mercy. He had compassion and empathy all while holding those he loved so dearly with accountability. While I will never be able to achieve his level of teaching, I strive so show those same qualities in my classroom. I truly love all of my students and long to meet them where they are, guide them realize how valuable they are, and empower them to be confident in learning all they can learn. No child is unworthy of the best education I can possibly give them. My mom is an amazing mom whom I had the privilege of watching live out faith and perseverance in extremely hard situations. She never gave up and stived to always be the best she could be for others around her. I watched her build confidence in students and show them love at all times. However, she didn't stop there. She is retired now but always showed her students and myself how to reach for the stars and that it was up to us to work hard in life. She always taught us that no one is going to do it for you. You must decide on the path you are destined for and then work to achieve what you are already capable of. She taught us how to belief in ourselves even when life throws you some sour lemons. She was a single mother with several trials who persevered and was inspiration to me. I longed to impact my students in the same ways that she modeled for others.

What words of advice would you give to young Thunder fans regarding the importance of education?

I would like to tell young Thunder Fans that life is not going to be perfect. In fact, there will be many trials in life but how we handle those trials shows our true integrity. the trials I have faced in my life have made me a better teacher, a better human that longs to make a positive difference in this crazy world. The work you but into being the best that you can be is well worth it. Work hard to be a person that contributes positive things in your community. I had every right to be angry and want justice for things that were not fair or right because I had an alcoholic father who abandoned my family. Life is not fair, but we inspire others and help them become their best when we are transparent and share our stories. Always strive to be the best that you can be and do not let your past define you. You can break any negative cycles in your life just as I did. I believe in you!

School: Marshall Elementary School in Checotah

Grade: 2nd

Subject: Everything

Career Length: 7 years

Current Position: One year

Favorite Thunder player: Jaylin Williams

Why did you choose to become an educator?

I believe that everyone should have equal access to quality education, which is why I am such a firm believer in public school. I believe that education should not only teach people academics, but also how to be a good and productive member of society. I believe that school should always be a safe haven, and that teachers should seek to meet all needs, starting with the basics. I believe learners should be taught in the ways that are most beneficial to them, whether that is hands on using manipulatives, using technology, or having quiet time to study independently. Education is not a one size fits all concept. Everyone learns differently, and it is up to teachers to give their learners exactly what they need. This happens by building relationships with your students, which then turns to trust and open communication, hopefully encouraging the learners to speak out about what is working and what they still need. Being a teacher is about so much more than teaching the curriculum and meeting certain test score goals. Teachers have the great privilege of fostering a lifelong love of learning in their students. I hope that buy investing in my students and showing them that I am always in their corner, they will love learning and continue to value the importance of education.

Who is/was the most influential person in your career?

My older sister, Katelyn, who is our school counselor and my best friend! She has the kindest heart and is always thinking of ways we can make the lives of our students and their families better. Her passion for education, and her compassion for kids, is unmatched. She is what I strive to be as an educator!

What words of advice would you give to young Thunder fans regarding the importance of education?

Look at education as the door to your next adventure! Being educated means you are more prepared for all of the excitement your future holds. Every situation you find yourself in is an opportunity to learn, don't take any of them for granted and get excited about what each person you encounter can teach you!

School: Adams Elementary

Grade: 2nd

Subject: General Education

Career Length: 15 years

Current Position: 5 years

Favorite Thunder player: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Why did you choose to become an educator?

Following the birth of my nephew, I became the "manny" and watched him during the day. This led me to my first Preschool teaching position, which led me to 2nd grade in public schools.

Who is/was the most influential person in your career?

Apart from my nephew who sort of launched me into the education field, my spouse, Dominique Poncelet, is a real inspiration to me. She is a fellow educator and a constant source of motivation, inspiration, and support.

What words of advice would you give to young Thunder fans regarding the importance of education?

Education is a pathway to every dream you have! Whether you want to play sports and get drafted though the college process, or you study marketing to become a YouTube star, education is the key to living your best life.

School: Berryhill Middle School

Grade: 8th

Subject: English and Art

Career Length: 29 years

Current Position: 4 years

Favorite Thunder player: Lindy Waters III

Why did you choose to become an educator?

I was fortunate enough to have teachers throughout my education who inspired me, who made me want to learn, and who influenced me in my decision to become a teacher. They were people who made learning meaningful and challenged me, people who made learning interesting and engaging, who captured my attention – even if I didn’t think I was interested; but more importantly, people who listened to me and my classmates. They cared and were trustworthy. It might sound cliché, but I want to be one of those teachers who has a memorable and positive influence in the life of a child. I have been blessed with a very particular skill set, which serves my students in a positive and productive way. I became a teacher because it is a challenging, stimulating, and rewarding profession. It is challenging in that it is an ever-evolving profession, which demands continual learning. It is stimulating in that I never know from one day to the next what challenges I may face when I am dealing with so many unique personalities. It is incredibly rewarding when I know I am a contributor as a student experiences one of those “Aha!” moments. When I have students who achieve their goals, get excited, and then set higher goals for themselves, I feel like I have accomplished something truly spectacular. More than anything, being a teacher allows me to help students find their passion and achieve their potential. By being a teacher, I get the distinct privilege of helping to create the future.

Who is/was the most influential person in your career?

I’m sure I could identify each teacher who had a memorable impact on my life and learning, but probably the most influential one was in high school, Miss Cherry. She not only taught me English, she taught me to listen and look for God’s direction in my life. She taught me that the easy way is not always the right way, and the right decisions are not always the popular ones. She led by example demonstrating organization, careful planning, clear instructions, flexibility, and professionalism. She demanded excellence from her students – and got it. She cared about her students, in and out of the classroom, and we knew she was real. I wanted to be like her.

What words of advice would you give to young Thunder fans regarding the importance of education?

Work collaboratively with your child's teachers. We are in this position, by choice, to help teach, guide, and encourage your children. Check-in regularly with their teachers. Encourage them, support them, and let them know they can count on your support.

School: Kiamichi Technology Center-McAlester Campus

Grade: 8th

Subject: Pre- Employment Transition Service Specialist-Kiamichi Tech, in collaboration with The National Center for Disability Education and Training, University Oklahoma Outreach, through a grant from the Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services, is making available Pre-Employment Transition Service (Pre-ETS) activities to students with disabilities. The activities are introductory services and are intended to help students with a documented disability get an early start in identifying career interests to achieve community integration, independence, post-secondary education and/or competitive integrated employment.

Career Length: 6 years

Current Position: October 2023!

Favorite Thunder player: Josh Giddey

Why did you choose to become an educator?

I became a teacher because I wanted to impact students' lives by meeting my student's where they are, to build relationships with them to help them grow, and to be successful in their community.

Who is/was the most influential person in your career?

Mrs. Curtis from South Rock Creek School. She was my 5th grade reading teacher. She was one of a kind. Her passion for reading, her students, and our success in the classroom is the reason why I teach!

What words of advice would you give to young Thunder fans regarding the importance of education?

I want you to remember your why. Whatever your reason may be, remember your why. Daily we are faced with distractions and these distractions can cause us to lose sight of the why we do what we do. So on the days when you might question if you're making a difference, want to give up, think back on your why!

School: Earl Harris Bethany Elementary

Grade: 2nd Grade

Subject: All Subjects

Career Length: 18 years

Current Position: 2nd year at Bethany; 6 years total

Favorite Thunder player: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Why did you choose to become an educator?

I chose to go into education to not only teach students academics but to teach them kindness, leadership, courage, grit and creativity. These virtues are an important part of my teaching!

Who is/was the most influential person in your career?

The most influential person in my career would be my mentor, Dr. Stephanie Cavner.

What words of advice would you give to young Thunder fans regarding the importance of education?

Believe in yourself! You can do anything you set your mind to! You've got grit! You don't quit!

School: Parkview Elementary

Grade: 4th

Subject: All subjects

Career Length: 23 years

Current Position: 23 years

Favorite Thunder player: Josh Giddey

Why did you choose to become an educator?

I chose to be an educator to make a positive difference in a child’s life. To be a constant adult that they know they can count on and depend on. To be someone that is always there. I chose to be an educator to partner with parents to help their children become better versions of themselves. I chose to be an educator to make a difference!!!

Who is/was the most influential person in your career?

I’ve had several teachers and principals help me to become the teacher I am today. Every teammate I’ve had has lead me to become better. But, if I had to choose one, it would be Mr. Kalsu, my first principal. He took a chance on a crazy 23 year old and gave me the opportunity I needed to become a teacher. He lead me, encouraged me, and taught me how to be better. He’s the first of many that has done that, and to him I’m forever grateful.

What words of advice would you give to young Thunder fans regarding the importance of education?

READ, READ, and READ!!! Learn your math facts, because they’ll never change or go away. And, most importantly, BELIEVE IN YOURSELF!!!! Be who you are created to be, and go out and change the world!!!

School: Eisenhower Elementary School

Grade: Kindergarten

Subject: All subjects

Career Length: 5 years

Current Position: 5 years

Favorite Thunder player: Jalen Williams

Why did you choose to become an educator?

While at my moms school one day, I watched my mothers interaction with a student who happen to be having a really rough day. While the student came into her classroom angry because of something that happened at home, she was able to reach him and make his day better. I got to watch my mom change the trajectory of a students day, just by showing him the love he needed in that moment. It was then I knew that I wanted to be that game changer in a child’s life. That was the day I wanted to become an educator.

Who is/was the most influential person in your career?

While I will always attribute my want to be an educator to my mother, another one of the most influential people in my career was a past principal. I was brand new and I was always really hard on myself. She always encouraged me and made sure I understood that my students had the best teacher. I just wanted to make sure that my students had the chance to learn in their own way. Each time she observed me, I felt more confident in my abilities to use the data that we studied and I was able to implement what my students needed in my classroom. Thanks to her, I grew in ways that I didn’t know I could.

What words of advice would you give to young Thunder fans regarding the importance of education?

Education is so important! The more you know, the more change you can help make. Build your foundation and watch how amazing you can be. “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” -Nelson Mandela

School: Redstone Intermediate

Grade: 4th

Subject: Librarian

Career Length: 12 years

Current Position: 4 years

Favorite Thunder player: Josh Giddey

Why did you choose to become an educator?

My choice to become an educator stemmed from the influence of my dance teachers growing up. My dance teachers became part of my family supporting and inspiring me to reach my highest potential. I began to emulate their example by mentoring fellow dancers including my younger sister. I enjoyed sharing my knowledge of dance and helping my fellow classmates understand how the technique required of simple steps transformed into intricate choreography. As time progressed, I matured into the coveted role of dance teacher. I fell in love with watching my students’ growth from the beginning of the year to the culminating recital. The pride I felt in my students inspired me to pursue elementary education in college. After teaching for 8 years, my passion for teaching transformed into a desire to help students to find a love for reading. I went back to school and received my master’s in library media in education and have enjoyed connecting readers to books and cultivating a reading community at my school.

Who is/was the most influential person in your career?

The most influential person in my career was my first principal, Scott Hein. He hired me fresh out of college with very little teaching experience and shaped me into the educator I am today. He held me to high standards and showed me what a compassionate, dedicated, and knowledgeable educator can do for students. He also created a team that supported, inspired, and collaborated with one another to help all of us reach our highest potential. It is because of his excellent leadership and the staff that was more like family that I was able to flourish as an educator.

What words of advice would you give to young Thunder fans regarding the importance of education?

My biggest piece of advice is to read! Reading will open all kinds of doors for you in education and in life. Read widely from fiction to nonfiction, audiobooks to eBooks. All reading counts and not only will make you smarter but also shape you into a kind, compassionate, and empathetic person. Not to mention, reading is just plain awesome!

School: Cushing High School

Grade: 12th

Subject: English and AP Language and Composition

Career Length: 27 years

Current Position: 13 years

Favorite Thunder player: Jalen Williams

Why did you choose to become an educator?

I grew up with two younger sisters. From the time I was young, I helped my sisters with schoolwork, so education seemed the natural progression to continue helping others.

Who is/was the most influential person in your career?

My students have truly been the most influential people in my career. My students have helped me to change and grow as an educator over the course of my career. The students drive me to continue to better myself and attempt to be the teacher that each student needs to be successful.

What words of advice would you give to young Thunder fans regarding the importance of education?

Keep an open mind to learning new things. Our mindset determines our understanding, and believing in ourselves will open the door to learning new things.