The Class of 2025 Thanks SoWashCo Teachers

As graduation season approaches, students across SoWashCo Schools prepare to step into a new chapter of their lives. Amid the excitement, students’ deep gratitude for the teachers who guided, inspired and supported them along the way stands out.

Teachers do more than just deliver lessons. They are mentors, cheerleaders and help shape futures. For many graduating students, reflecting on their academic journey brings back memories of educators who believed in them when they doubted themselves, pushed them to reach their potential and provided comfort during challenging times.

Here are a few words from some of our graduates thanking teachers who impacted them.

 

 

“Mr. Howard’s teaching made even the most difficult concepts easy to understand, and he made me love physics so much that I decided to study engineering in college,” said Eliza Kubicek from East Ridge High School. “Even beyond the classroom, Mr. Howard is one of the nicest people I know and I love joking around with him.” 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“I really enjoyed having Charlie Cauthorn for a GED teacher. He broke down the math and algebra so that one could understand it and was very patient. I  wouldn’t have passed my GED without his help,” said Joe Hayes from the Great Rivers Adult Education GED Program.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“The teachers who had the most impact on me are Shannon N'diaye and Karen Buckeye. They help me out in more ways than one and I might not show it but I will always be grateful for them,” said Kyan Christian from the Next Step Transition Program.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“Ms. Hins, my kindergarten teacher, has been the sweetest teacher I have ever had. She treats all her students like her own children, and I will forever remember her for making school fun and a happy, loving environment,” said Kylee Gross from Park High School.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“This teacher has impacted my life and has changed my life forever is Ms. Palodichuk. She was my teacher during one of the hardest times of my life. She never gave up on me, no matter what,” said Carolina Falagan from Woodbury High School. “Being in her class last year made me love math and helped me gain confidence. She took her time and helped me understand that I am smart and I just learn differently. Ms. Palodichuk changed my life.”

 

 

 

 

 

“Breanna Taft introduced me to Orchestra in 3rd grade and inspired me to learn so much about music, showing me this amazing concept that means so much to me,” said Connor Karras-Sack from South Washington Alternative High School.

 

 

 

 

 

View all the teacher thank yous from graduates here.