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Milton Hershey School Celebrates Educators During Teacher Appreciation Week

Every day, Milton Hershey School teachers go above and beyond what’s expected of them as they develop the next generation of leaders. From delivering a top-notch education inside and outside the classroom, to mentoring students in their free time, teachers at MHS are more than just educators, they’re difference makers. In honor of Teacher Appreciation Week, Milton Hershey School asked the curriculum supervisors from each subject area across campus what they appreciate most about the teachers they work with.

Milton Hershey School Teacher Appreciation Week - Andrew Miller

How do MHS teachers go above and beyond to help their students succeed?

At MHS, teachers strive to provide our students with an engaging curriculum that connects with the passion and interests of our students. Ultimately, our students are compelled to step into the journey of our curriculum because of the energy and creativity of our teachers.

What do you value most about the teachers you work with every day?

I am humbled by the love our teachers have for our students each time I walk into a classroom. Our teachers are always willing to try something new, even if it is outside of their comfort zone. When I shared Minecraft Education Edition as a resource for our teachers, they didn’t feel intimidated that the students had more knowledge than they did, it inspired them.

Milton Hershey School Teacher Appreciation Week - Jennifer Kemmery

How do MHS teachers go above and beyond to help their students succeed?

MHS teachers care deeply about their students’ success. When a student needs a concept explained in a different way, our teachers thoughtfully consider strategies to help their student succeed.  Our teachers are passionate about creating classroom environments where students can share their ideas and ask thoughtful questions, in addition to designing engaging lessons and providing tutoring which meets the specific needs of their students. During the college application process, teachers spend hours supporting students as they tell their stories through their college essays.

What do you value most about the teachers you work with every day?

I am so grateful that MHS teachers reflect on their students’ engagement and the effectiveness of the curriculum they are using. Teachers regularly try out new strategies and texts, while forming meaningful relationships with each other, allowing them to collaborate in providing the best possible learning environment for their students.

Milton Hershey School Teacher Appreciation Week - Mike Campbell

How do MHS teachers go above and beyond to help their students succeed?

I get to witness a lot of subtle corrective teaching going on that doesn’t disrupt the flow of instruction, which is very heartwarming. The pandemic took us all by surprise, but to see the healthy lifestyles teachers embrace being greater together has been fantastic. Our teachers are always willing to help their students through authentic implementation of targeted tutoring for those that need and ask for help.

What do you value most about the teachers you work with every day?

The relationship building. I work with physical education and health teachers, and they are very passionate about their students’ success in and out of the classroom. I am in the unique position to see the teachers interact with their students like they would their own children. Many of the teachers I work with are coaches as well as formal mentors, but all of them are informally mentoring students every day. This is honestly what sets MHS apart from any other school.

Milton Hershey School Teacher Appreciation Week - David Yingst

How do MHS teachers go above and beyond to help their students succeed?

In my short time at MHS, I have marveled at our teachers’ commitment to mission. On so many occasions, I have seen our teachers give their extra time to tutor students, put forth more effort to build a great lesson, and have a willingness to work on and refine their craft to make their work with our students the best it can be. It is evident to me that our teachers are always looking to improve and build upon the great things they already do.

What do you value most about the teachers you work with every day?

I value how willing our teachers are to be reflective and try new things to be even better at what they do. That type of culture does not exist everywhere and we are so fortunate to have that here! Our community is Greater Together!

Milton Hershey School Teacher Appreciation Week - Gina Barkman

How do MHS teachers go above and beyond to help their students succeed?

I am continually impressed by the high level of collaboration and commitment in our co-teaching pairs. These partnerships allow teachers to creatively plan and share instructional responsibilities to meet the needs of their students, including those who need extra learning opportunities.

What do you value most about the teachers you work with every day?

Teachers take time to build meaningful relationships with students so that when challenging learning tasks are presented, students are confident knowing that they are supported and that their teachers are rooting for their success!

Milton Hershey School Teacher Appreciation Week - Jaunine Donely

How do MHS teachers go above and beyond to help their students succeed?

MHS teachers come early, stay late, visit student homes on weekends to deliver STEM enrichment or help with assignments, participate in the MOLD program, chaperone events, attend games and performances, and take the time to truly get to know their students individually. Our teachers are committed to our mission and “all in” for our students!

What do you value most about the teachers you work with every day?

I value their work ethic, commitment, and the way they work closely together to support each other and their students. They are fantastic human beings!

Milton Hershey School does not discriminate in admissions or other programs and services on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, sex, religious creed or disability. Read important MHS policies on equal opportunity and diversity, equal employment opportunity, and more.