Moore, Ostmeyer are new faces at MHS
By Chelsea Arnhold
MHS student reporter
Marion High School welcomed two new staff members this school year. Carolyn Moore is a part-time English teacher and Rex Ostmeyer teaches social studies.
Moore has lived in Marion since 1977. She is excited to be teaching here and loves instructing students she knows, as well as associating with their parents.
A newer Marion resident, Rex Ostmeyer moved here in June. This is a much smaller school than where he had previously taught, which had about 1,200 students and a staff of 90 teachers.
"I didn't get to know more than 30% of the students, nor did I know all of the teachers. I like how there are more incentives here for the students, with open lunch and the half days," Ostmeyer said.
Our new teachers aren't too shy to get involved with our school. Moore sponsors STUCO and Ostmeyer is the head coach of the boys' basketball team.
"I love getting to work with students who take responsibility well," Moore said. Homecoming week was her greatest challenge. "There are thousands of details to work out, such as activities, vehicles for the candidates, clean up, food, and flowers. I'm still learning how to do this," she said.
Ostmeyer has a lot of coaching experience. He was the assistant coach for six years at Campus High School in Wichita, one year at Derby Junior High School, and assistant coach at St. Xavier for one year.
Both teachers agree they still have much to learn, not only about their students, but also about the subjects they teach. "I have to improve my content area knowledge; I never know enough to keep myself educated," Ostmeyer stated.
"Trying to set a pace that suits so many different types of students is challenging," Moore said.
Ostmeyer finds it difficult to adjust to posting eligibility each week. "Students are actually working hard to get their grades up to get open lunch at the end of the week."
Meeting all the curricular goals necessary for English 10 this year is important for Moore. She wishes to do this in a way so students are aware that they are learning.
Ostmeyer wants to get his students to appreciate the reasons why they need to pay attention in class. He hopes to get them ready for college.
One final note which may be of vital importance to Marion High students: If you need to butter up Mrs. Moore slip her a Snickers bar. Mr. Ostmeyer's weaknesses are peanut butter and chocolate chip cookies.
