Teacher Spotlight Sponsored by COUNTRY Financial
The OSSAA & COUNTRY Financial are teaming up to recognize the efforts of educators and coaches/advisors who go beyond the call of duty to positively impact the lives of Oklahoma high school students inside and outside of the classroom.
Christie Wilson, a history teacher at Charles Page High School, is January’s honoree…
Current teaching role &some history of your teaching career, if applicable:
Currently teaching 9th grade Honor’s US Government and Honor’s OK History. In my 20th year teaching. Taught many different classes – current events, US history, civics, computers, literature, government, OK history, PE
What is the most rewarding part of being a teacher at your school?
The most rewarding part of teaching is being able to meet students when they are freshman and then watching them grow into young adults. And to see them have different success’s as they grow.
What are some ways you continue to motivate your classroom and students?
I believe in respecting other people but I also help teach students to respect themselves by always striving to do their best and to push past their comfort zones. So if they are pushing themselves then they are always growing as individuals.
Share your best teaching story or memory.
I don’t think I can choose just one story or memory to be my favorite. I try my best to stay in the moment and anytime a student comes to me with exciting news or an accomplishment, those are the moments I cherish because they see themselves in a positive light and they have a sense of pride in themselves. Those moments are priceless to me because for some of those students it was the most important moment in their lives, and for them to want to share it with me means everything.
Who is a mentor that has made a lasting impact on your education or teaching career and why?
I have had several incredible mentors in my life but the one who has had the biggest impact on my teaching career would be my father, David Wilson. He taught and coached for over 30 years and showed me that the most important lesson you can teach someone doesn’t come from a textbook, but comes from the heart by being genuine and kind. To build relationships with your students based on respect and trust, so they can then turn around and pass that on to others.
Give an example of how you have best felt supported in your education career.
I am blessed to have an incredible circle of friends and family that are always there to encourage and support me in anyway. But I believe I feel most supported is when I receive a letter or note from a parent thanking me for teaching their child. I understand that teaching is a huge responsibility and receiving a genuine thank you from a parent is very up-lifting.
Are you also currently coaching a sport or activity?
Yes, High School Coaching (school, sport/activity, level and how long you’ve been there, overall years).
20 years total coaching; coached softball, volleyball, basketball; currently in 2nd year coaching varsity basketball at Sand Springs
What is the most rewarding part of being a coach?
Building relationships with athletes that last beyond the sport.
Favorite game, meet, memory or moment from coaching so far?
Winning Volleyball State Championship in 2008 and then winning Basketball State Championship in 2018. My favorite memory was coaching softball with my dad.
What are some ways you continue to motivate your team and build your program?
I think one of the best ways to build a program is to work with and encourage the youth in your community. To invest in the kids and to show your high school athletes the importance of being positive role models is a lesson that will benefit everyone.
What is or was your team’s mindset/motto heading into this year’s season?
Be relentless. Never stop working, learning, growing.
Read about previous Teacher Spotlights by COUNTRY Financial: https://ossaaillustrated.com/teacher-spotlight-sponsored-by-country-financial-2/
