Elmbrook Spotlight: Tonawanda Teachers Dish About High School, Elmbrook Schools

Michele Hoffman

• School: Tonawanda Elementary School
• Grade/Subject: Kindergarten teacher
• Years in the Elmbrook School District: 12 years
• College/University: University of Wisconsin

What’s the best part of teaching in the Elmbrook School District:
I love the way the teachers, staff and parents work together to support the needs of our students. Teaching at Tonawanda is like working with my extended family.

Why I wanted to be a teacher:
I have always loved the community feel in the school setting. As a young child I knew I wanted to be a teacher. I was inspired by my third grade teacher. She was loving, nurturing, and inspired me to learn. 

If I wasn’t a teacher, I’d be:
I am a teacher to my core. I can’t imagine a career more fulfilling or that I would rather do.

My least favorite subject in high school was:
Science

My favorite school lunch menu item was:
Pizza

Molly Hopp    

• School: Tonawanda Elementary School    
• Grade/Subject: Third Grade Teacher
• Years in the Elmbrook School District: 12 years
• College/University: University of Wisconsin - Madison (Undergrad); Concordia University - Mequon (Masters)

What’s the best part of teaching in the Elmbrook School District:
The students always seem to be excited to learn and the parents in our district are very supportive. It's also great to work with so many other staff members who I admire and respect.  

Why I wanted to be a teacher:
I can't remember ever wanting to be anything BUT a teacher. I especially loved my middle school teacher, Mrs. Kester, and felt that she inspired me to go into teaching as a career. 

If I wasn’t a teacher, I’d be:
An author 

My least favorite subject in high school was:
Algebra-trig

My favorite school lunch menu item was:
Pancakes