From 9:00 a.m. to 4:25 p.m. students spend their school days with countless teachers who do more than just teach. They build a connection with each one of them. One teacher who truly stands out is a technical theater director, Miss Cantrell, who goes above and beyond to create a positive and welcoming environment in her classroom.

“When I’m in the Blackbox, I feel super welcomed. “Miss Cantrell makes it such a safe space and it makes me love coming to class,” said JJ Potter.

Miss Cantrell is not the only teacher making an impact. Teachers everywhere work on creating a strong bond with their students that lasts beyond the classroom. Zipdoo reports that about 80% of teachers report that their students are in a happy environment. It increases emotional well-being through education, which leads to stronger teacher-student connections. When a student is in a positive and engaged learning environment, it makes them more focused and likely to do better.

“We always start class with a question of the day where people get to share out just like personal things, and I’ll share my own answers to the question of the day as a way to sort of like humanize a teacher.”

A good and positive classroom experience doesn’t only improve participation; it can also improve a student’s happiness and success in and out of school. When students are comfortable with their teacher, they tend to be more willing to open up and be more genuine.

“And I think being real and being honest and being a human is one of the ways that I’m able to make that connection. My students see that I am not a perfect human being. I’m not always at 100% all the time, but I’ll always put my effort in towards them. And then in turn, a lot of times my students treat me the same way.”

Teachers like Miss Cantrell don’t just teach, they create lifelong bonds that support and inspire students for the rest of their life.

Olivia Cantrell has been the tech theater teacher here at Wakeland High School since 2023. She shares information to better understand who she is like and her experience of being a teacher. 

What is something about you that most people at school don’t know?

“I’m not sure this is shocking, but I love to craft things! I make most of my own jewelry, candles, and knitwear. If I can do it myself, I absolutely will!”

What do you find most rewarding about your job? 

“When my students tell me that they feel proud of themselves. Especially when they attempt something scary or new.” 

What is your favorite book or movie, and why does it resonate with you?

“My favorite movie is Dead Poets Society. I love it because it examines the struggles of growing up, being put into a box, and the power of a truly exceptional teacher. I often quote the movie to my students before our shows.” 

Can you share a memorable moment you’ve had with a student or in the classroom?

“This year, when our One-Act Play Advanced to the regional contest, it was surreal. We work so hard on this show, and it is so rewarding to get the opportunity and privilege to keep telling that story!”

What has been your most significant achievement as a teacher?

“I’ve been teaching for less than two years, but building my program and having kids return to tech theatre because they enjoy the craft is very rewarding.”

Who has been a significant influence in your life, and how have they impacted you?

“When I was little, I wanted to be just like my sister, and she did theater. Obviously, I had to do theatre too. She now works in government, but I would have never found theatre if she hadn’t done it first!”

What’s one skill or lesson you hope your students take away from your class?

“The power of fun and empathy. I want them to leave as worldly, kind people.”

What do you enjoy most about teaching high school students?

“High schoolers are the ideal students because I can treat them (mostly) like adults. Middle schools can be annoying, and elementary schoolers require more patience than I possess.”

What’s a favorite memory from your own high school or college days?

“I directed a show for my college senior project. We found an old antique claw-foot tub and filled it with water at the center stage. At the end of the show, the actress dunked herself into it, and the audience was clearly shocked by the dedication.”

Teachers like Ms. Cantrell are what make Wakeland so great. When students are excited to show up to class, that’s how you know their teachers are doing a good job.