How do you motivate students?
“A lot of the student’s motivation comes from their relationships. As a teacher I try to reassure students that they matter, they can do all of the things they put their mind to no matter what hurdles are in their way. It’s about building trust in themselves.”
What inspired you to begin teaching / why do you teach?
“At first, I wanted to be an engineer. I've always loved creating and building things, but when COVID-19 hit I started tutoring people online and fell in love with helping others. Seeing that ‘click’ on their faces when they finally understood brought me joy so I decided to pursue teaching.”
How long have you taught at SLHS?
“I did my student teaching here under Ms. Goldberg and I’ve done two years of teaching here after that, so three years total”
What is your teaching motto?
“I’ve never really thought about what my teaching motto would be but I definitely want my students to understand that there is no such thing as a ‘math person.’ You shouldn’t create an idea that math isn’t for you and give up on trying.”
Fun facts about yourself?
“Well, I love cooking and I have 5 huskies. Yes, they do sound like how they sound on TikTok (broken ambulances). I love traveling but I actually haven’t traveled much. I enjoy being relatable to students, it reminds them I’m more than just a teacher. I was born and raised in Columbia and moved here in the start of my high school years”
How do you feel about receiving this award?
“It’s exciting! It was a goal of mine. Receiving the award was reassuring and let me know I was doing the right thing.”
Comment from Head of the Math Department, Mrs. Goldberg
“We are very proud of Ms. Herr! She is awesome at what she does and benefits the department so much. She is constantly asking questions and her optimism is contagious, she is truly uplifting to be around.”
Comment from Principal Amy Lundy
“I haven't known Ms. Herr very long, but the times I have been in her class, I feel students are very engaged and excited about learning. I think she commands a presence among her students and she is willing to give them individual attention to help them be successful. I feel we are very lucky to have her here at Southern Lee High School”
Interviews and article written by Larissa Jackson, Southern Lee Social Media Intern