Dale Orthmann, Columbus High School

Position: Math Teacher

Years Teaching: 36 years

Hobbies/Interests: Hunting, fishing and outdoor activities

What do you enjoy most about teaching? I love interacting with students on a daily basis! I enjoy building relationships with them and helping them to grow both academically and personally. I also really enjoy seeing students move on and become successful adults.

What do you find the most challenging about teaching? Two great challenges come to my mind. First, the dramatic difference in skill sets found in some classes, and trying to meet the needs of all learners in those classes. A second significant challenge is motivating all students to put forth the consistent effort necessary to be successful.

Best tip for new teachers: Build relationships first. Motivating students is much easier once they know you really care about them and want them to be successful. Also, carry a genuine enthusiasm with you into the classroom every day!

Best tip for career teachers: If you have great ideas, share them with your colleagues! Have a positive and flexible attitude, and view your school as a team with everyone working together for a common cause.

Favorite piece of advice for students: If you don't understand something, your teacher WANTS to help you! Never be afraid to reach out for help from your teachers!

What being a Gold Star Teacher means to you: Knowing that students and parents thought enough of what I do to nominate me was a tremendous honor. It is humbling to have been selected from such a large group of nominated teachers in Blackhawk county. I am also very much aware that there are a lot of outstanding teachers out there (many in my own school) who are just as deserving of this award as I am.