This year, the school has siezed the opportunity to welcome seven new teachers to the staff. JagWire has taken the chance to get to know some of their stories.

Science teacher Alyssa Auld:

What class and grade do you teach?

I teach chemistry and physics to grades 10 through 12.

Why did you decide to come to Mill Valley?

I really like the size of the school and there’s a lot of opportunities and resources for science.

How well have other staff members/students welcomed you?

I’ve been really lucky, they’ve welcomed me really well. I’ve been able to meet all the other [science] department members. The students have welcomed me well, given me a heads-up about a few things, and made transitioning in really easy.

What is your favorite thing about the school so far?

I’d say the students. I’ve had a lot of fun getting to know them.

What is your favorite college/university?

KU. I’m a Jayhawk at heart.

Social studies teacher Jack Johnson:

What class and grade do you teach?

I teach geography to freshmen and government to seniors.

Why did you decide to come to Mill Valley?

I went here, I know lots of students and teachers, and the atmosphere is great. I figured if it’s a good place to be a student then it should be a good place to be a teacher.

When did you graduate from Mill Valley?

I graduated in 2006.

How well have other staff members/students welcomed you?

Real well, the process was very nice. The social studies department has been great, and I know lots of students because I live in Shawnee. Overall it’s been very welcoming.

What is your favorite thing about the school so far?

The students. They’re great, they do what I tell them and they come ready to learn. But they are a far second from Mr. Strickland; he’s what’s important.

What is your favorite college/university?

K-State.

English teacher Adam Wessel:

What class and grades do you teach?

I teach English to juniors and seniors.

Why did you decide to come to Mill Valley?

It was a new opportunity, a different challenge, and I was somewhat looking for a change.

How well have other teachers/students welcomed you?

It’s been great, both have made me feel really welcomed, especially the staff. They’ve made it a nice smooth transition [from Monticello Trails]. It’s been awesome.

What’s your favorite thing about the school so far?

The students and staff. It’s nice working with older students and I’m really enjoying the higher level teaching content.

What’s your favorite college/university?

KU, that’s easy.