An OHS tradition started in 2011 was the highlight of last night's varsity basketball games. Teacher Appreciation Night provides an opportunity for senior basketball players and cheerleaders to honor a teacher who has had a significant impact on their life. A student testimonial to an educator is one of the great tributes that a teacher can receive, according to Principal Mark Hanson, who introduced the teachers.
Chloe Bradley nominated John Jaeger -
Mr. Jaeger was my freshman year lifting coach. He not only pushed me to be a good lifter but he pushed me to work hard. He also helped me with my recovery after my surgery. He forced me to see the bigger picture of why I was putting in so much work when I wasn’t seeing results right away. Mr. Jaeger is not only a great teacher, he is also a great person, whether I needed advice about something or I just needed to get something off my chest. Thank you, Mr. Jaeger, for not only being an amazing teacher for me but a strong role model.
Amirah Ghastalani nominated Michael Cronk -
In the time that I have know Mr. Cronk, he has always given his advice and wisdom when asked. He was a driving force in my decision to go to college and was most excited and proud when I got in. Hanging with Mr. Cronk provides wise speeches along with fun times and laughter. There’s never a dull day when Mr. Cronk is around. Thank you Mr. Cronk for being a wonderful mentor to me and others.
Adam Greiner nominated Luke Goemaat -
I chose Mr. Goematt because he is a fun guy that everyone gets along with and always pushes you to do your best. He has made me a better athlete and a better person by pushing me in the weight room. Thank you Mr. Goemaat.
Kennedy Hugen nominated Ms. Kim Muchow -
Ms. Muchow was my kindergarten teacher and even though I was young then, I can perfectly remember all the fun I had in that class. She always cared so much about all of us kids and finding good, creative ways to teach us, like the songs. I could probably recite some of them like “Anna Banana Jumping in the Stew.” Her and I even shared the same birthday and we would have our class party together right before Christmas break. I’m thankful that she was my very first teacher, making me enjoy school a little bit more, as I’m sure she still does with her students today.
Cale Leonard nominated Kyle Creamer -
Mr. Creamer was my golf coach all four years and basketball coach the last two years. Over my high school career, I’ve created a special relationship with Mr. Creamer. Together, we have been through a lot in sports, from missing state by one shot in golf my freshman year all the way to winning state my senior year. I’ve learned a lot about being an athlete and being a better person from Mr. Creamer. I feel that we have created a lifelong bond and I wouldn’t trade my experiences with him over the last four years for anything. Thank you Mr. Creamer
Hannah Lisk nominated Ms. Annie Pruessner -
I chose Ms. Pruessner because ever since I had her as a freshman, she has pushed me to better myself both in the classroom and outside. She was the one I would go to if I had any problems or needed someone to hang out with when I was struggling with college anatomy and physiology my junior year. Thank you for being the most impactful person during my time here at OHS and shaping me into the person I am today. Thank you Ms. Pruessner.
Jocelyn Maw nominated Jenifer Fenton -
Ms. Fenton and I have been close ever since my junior year when I was at my worst battling anxiety. I came to her because she seemed comforting to talk to. Ever since then she has become my personal anxiety coach. When one of us are having a rough day, we always give each other mini pep talks to help get through the day. She has always been my biggest supporter for my future career as a fashion designer. She always believes in me and tells me she see’s me succeeding in the fashion industry. Thank you Ms. Fenton.
Addison Ransom nominated Brooke Fischels -
I was so glad when I found out that Mrs. Fischels would be my math teacher my senior year because I had heard such good things. Calculus is one of the most difficult and stressful classes I have ever taken and Mrs. Fischels was always very supportive and encouraging through it all. There was never a doubt in my mind that she wanted all of her student to succeed. Thank you Mrs. Fishcels for being so easy to talk to and so willing to help. I will never forget your class or your wonderful spirit.
Armani Robinson nominated Neil Hartz -
Mr. Hartz has been my role model. He has been there for me when I needed it. Not only has he impacted me in basketball, but in life itself. Mr. Hartz has taught me so many life lessons that I will keep my whole life. He has pushed me to be a better student and shows his want and care for me to succeed. Not only has he been my teacher and coach, but a father figure. He took me in and continues to show his care, support and most importantly his love for me every day. If I am having a tough time, I know I can always go to him. There are very few times that I have a dull moment with him. Mr. Hartz knows how to make me crack a smile or have a good laugh. Everyday he pushes me to be a better person and player. I couldn’t think of any one more deserving for this award tonight. Love ya Hoss!
Mason Young nominated Mindy Young -
My mom has always been one of my biggest fans from the classroom to the stands. Mrs. Young has always pushed me to do well academically. My mom believes in having a good work ethic and has always encouraged me to do my best in anything that I do. Mrs. Young never gave up on me, even when I did not do what I needed to do. She would always give me MANY words of advice and tell me to do better moving forward. I remember a time in first grade when she asked me to leave the classroom until I could get myself pulled together. I could return to class when I was ready. My mom has always loved and cared for me even when I didn’t have it all together. Mrs. Young also supported me and my love of sports. She would spend many hours out in the freezing cold weather as well as traveling many hours just to watch me play my favorite sport. Thank you mom for being my educator and my mom.