Ryan Christoffer, Highland Elementary

Position: 4th grade teacher

Years Teaching: 11 years

Hobbies/Interests: I love to be outdoors. My hobbies include hunting, fishing, camping, coaching softball, and reading. The best part about my hobbies is I am able to share them with my family.

What do you enjoy most about teaching? I enjoy seeing the growth students make from the beginning of the year to the end.

What do you find most challenging about teaching? The learning process is unpredictable, but that is also what makes the job fun and rewarding.

Best tip for new teachers: Engage, engage, engage! Think of how you will engage students in the learning first! Then, develop the lesson.

Best tip for career teachers: Never stop learning, there will always be more to learn. The impact on students is worth the work.

Favorite piece of advice for students: Embrace the challenge, make mistakes that is when learning happens.

What being a Gold Star Teacher means to you: I am honored to be recognized as a Gold Star teacher. Winning this award means that I have earned the respect of the students and families I have the privilege to serve. I have been blessed to work with amazing teachers and mentors over the years who helped me to develop as an educator. Teaching is all about the team, so this is a Highland Award as much as an individual award!

Watch Ryan's video here!