Near the end of their season the Wortham Lady Bulldogs selected teachers to give jerseys to in appreciation for the great work they do at Wortham ISD.
Coach Michael Brooks asked the girls for any praises they had for these teachers. Here is what they had to say:
Sierra Davis
“Ms. Clow is one teacher who impacted me the most during my time here in Wortham,” said Sierra. “I had her for three years in junior high, and I really enjoyed all the experiments and projects that we did.
“She teaches in a self-paced style that stood out to me. I also liked how her room was unique and different from regular classrooms.”
Avery Chapman
“Mrs. Perez truly cares about the students,” said Avery. “She is sweet and would do anything to help them have a better day.
“There have been countless times for which I have walked into her class and already was in a better mood. Mrs. Perez has helped a lot of students through rough times by just being there.
“Thank you, Mrs. Perez, what you do is much appreciated.”
Brooks Norcross
“When I moved to Wortham, I had a past of teachers and adults in general never wiling to listen,” said Brooks. “I thought that this trend would continue when I moved here in fifth grade, but instead I was met with kindness from someone that actually cared about me.
“This person was and still is Mrs. Duke.
“Rather than writing me off as a troubled or problematic student she sat down and listened. One thing that really set off Mrs. Duke from the rest of the adults I’ve dealt with is that she made an effort to help me or just get to know me, no matter how often I pushed her away; she just kept knocking.
“Without Mrs. Duke coming into my life and giving me a person to confide in, I probably would be a very different student.
“I don’t think Mrs. Duke gets enough credit for her worth or value as a counselor here at Wortham. She has touched plenty of children’s lives here, and no telling how many students were able to change for the better.
“Even greater is the fact that all Mrs. Duke has done differently is listen to the students and being open and honest with them. She truly is a gift to the Wortham school system and anywhere else she has been or plans to go.
“Mrs. Duke has earned my utmost respect and will forever be a major influence on my life. Thank you, Mrs. Duke for everything you have done and continue to do.”
Esmeralda Olivares
My 7th and 8th grade Art and RLA teacher Mrs. Russell influenced me to be confident and to work hard. Throughout the two years I had her I was pushed to become better. She showed me how stepping out of my comfort zone can create better opportunities. Sure, I was forced to do things I didn’t want to do, but in the end I was proud. I learned that if I put my mind to it I can get it done. Mrs. Russell is strong and extremely hardworking, comedic and smart. She’s truly someone I can strive to be like and someone I can look back to in the years to come.
Braidee Taylor
I have been at wortham since 2015, and I have had many teachers through the years. But the one that impacted me the most is more than a teacher to me. She is a role model, a good person, and the best mom I could ask for. My class was her first class here. We had a lot of fun that year and we will always be her favorite class. She still impacts me every day. She takes care of me when I don’t know I need it. She was the first person I wanted to see after my wreck, she knows how to make me feel better. Overall she is just an amazing person. I love you so much Mom.
Addison Erler
The teacher that has impacted me the most in my time at Wortham is Mrs. Salazar. Mrs. Salazar has helped me to be more organized. She has inspired me to be more routine and to go to college. Thank you Mrs. Salazar.
Kurizma Randle
The teacher who impacted me the most is Maestra Salazar. She is really responsible & mature, so she is a great role model. She is also helping prepare us for the future. She’s understanding and cares for her students so she doesn’t make us feel like she’s out to get us. Also, class isn’t boring because she’s funny as well. She teaches in a way that makes me feel like you are learning. I leave her class actually knowing something new. And she makes me work hard too, because the way she teaches makes me more determined. Overall, she is a top tier teacher, her room smells good, she does too, she looks pretty, and her outfits are fire.
Trinity Fisher
Coach k holds a special place in my heart, as she has truly impacted my life in ways I never imagined. Her unwavering support and encouragement have pushed me to strive for greatness on and off the court. Through her guidance, I have learned the value of hard work, discipline and teamwork. She has instilled in me a passion for the sport and a determination to constantly improve my skills. But beyond basketball, my coach has taught me valuable lessons and has gave me advice over and over again. She sees what I see before bringing others into the picture, she’s showed me how to put myself first and the power of believing in oneself. She has been a constant source of inspiration, always pushing me to reach new heights and never settle. I am forever grateful for her influence and the positive impact she has had on shaping my character and enhancing my love for the game. I know it’s her first year here and in the little time she worked with Wortham she’s really showed me a different perspective.
Haylee Shivers
Mrs. Cryer has been a big influence on my life. She has helped with my ups and downs. She is a great teacher and helps me with keeping track of my schoolwork. Mrs. Cryer has always pushed me to do better, and she is an uplifting person to me. She has been my softball coach for God knows how long. Mrs. Cryer has a wonderful personality. She is funny, outgoing, smart, and always has a positive attitude, and always has a smile on her face. Thank you for being the best coach and teacher.
Kaylee Lyons
I chose Mrs. R because she has always been here for me. Ever since the first grade she has been the one person I knew I could go to. Whether it is me going to complain or me going to her for advice, she is always so understanding. Her smile lights up my day. Even if she doesn’t have the best day, she doesn’t let it change how she acts towards people. She is the most caring person I know. I would just like to thank her for everything she has done for me and I don’t know what I would do without her. I love you Mrs. R!!!
Amariah Frank
I haven’t been at Wortham ISD for long, but even though it’s only been a semester, the main teacher that’s made an impact on me this year has definitely been Coach Muns. I feel he’s very misunderstood in some ways, but he is truly a great teacher and an amazing powerlifting coach. No matter what it is, he’s always encouraging us to do our best, while still making sure we’re careful to not get hurt while doing so. I’m glad I have him as a coach this year and I can’t wait to see how far he takes us.
(Photos by Coach Michael Brooks, Head Varsity Girls Basketball Coach)