We have many new faces here at AHS, including the English 3 teacher, Ms. Walker. Walker was formerly a student of the Exira High School (which is no longer around). As she watched her younger brother grow up in the Atlantic School district, she fell in love with the Trojan community. As a college student Walker looked at Berryhill as her “teacher idol”, even though she never had Berryhill as an actual teacher. Then this past year while Ms. Walker taught at the AHSTW school district, she said that she met up with Berryhill for coffee and talk about teaching. Walker said,  “I still can’t believe I am now teaching under her as my mentor.  I am going to learn so much from her.”

Accepting a new job, Ms. Walker has had to face some changes. A major change she said was getting used to a new schedule. At AHSTW school started at 8:30, where as here in Atlantic we start a 7:30. Talking about her schedule change Ms. Walker mentioned, “even though a half hour doesn’t seem like a huge change in time, it has been.  I feel like I am always rushing to get ready in time to get to school at 7:30.”

Ms. Walker is not only a teacher here at AHS, she is also the head volleyball coach. She was offered this job when she accepted her teaching position. Walker didn’t just accept the coaching job because there was no coach, she accepted the job for many reasons. Athletics were a huge part of her life and all of the  experiences taught her how to get along with other people and make commitments. Walker stated that, “If I can create a positive environment where my athletes can not only develop into amazing players, but also people, I will be happy.  I love my team.  They make me smile everyday, and their improvements on the court inspire me to keep doing what I’m doing, despite the hardships we face.”

Along with her challenges, comes the perks of the English teacher’s job. She said that she loves all of her classes and there isn’t a day that she doesn’t laugh or smile. Ms. Walker’s favorite part of AHS is the student body and the staff. She mentioned, “Getting to work with amazing people and even more amazing students is a privilege.” As excited as Ms. Walker is to be here, we are even more excited to have her here at AHS!