Each Friday during the school year, we will spotlight one of our M3T Fellows. This week, let’s meet Sara Klesel from Parkersburg South High School!
Sara Klesel
M3T Noyce Fellow – Cohort 1
High School Mathematics Teacher
Parkersburg South High School
Wood County Schools
Twitter: @sbummy81
Number of years teaching: 15
Positions and Roles: Teaches Algebra I, Honors Geometry, Geometry, Pre-Calculus; Math Tutor; Wood County Schoology and Apple Teacher Trainer; Wood County Math Leadership Team
Professional awards, distinctions, and points of pride: Wood County Teacher of the Year for 2022, National Board Certified Teacher; Golden Holtan Grant Recipient in 2020; WVCTM Presenter, and Edith Spinks Award Winner in 2011
Interesting personal facts: Has been married for 9 years to Patrick and has two sons (Grey and Baylor); loves running, hiking, and spending time with family
Why are you excited to be part of the M3T project?
“I’m excited to learn from and collaborate with some of the best math teachers in the state. Over the next few years, I look forward to seeing how this experience will impact student learning and improve mathematics education.”
Why do you teach mathematics?
“A seed was planted in my heart for teaching math because of my own personal struggles with math. I am passionate about teaching students how to persevere, find success in math, and see it’s beauty all around us.”
What are you focused on improving about mathematics teaching?
“So many students come with negative prior experiences in math. I want them to know that ANYBODY can do math and experience true mathematics through productive struggle which carries over to everyday life.”
Final Thoughts:
“I love being a part of M3T! I love hearing what other math teachers are doing in their classrooms across the state and learning strategies that may help my students. This is the best support system and professional growth experience I’ve encountered.”
Spotlight Tweet:
Check in each week on #M3TFellowFriday throughout the school year to meet another M3T Fellow. You can find a listing of all of the M3T Fellows and stay up-to-date with the work of the M3T network at our website, https://m3twv.org. You can also follow us on Twitter, @m3t_wv.
