National Teacher’s Appreciation Day honors Dr. Walters, Donaghe

National Teacher’s Appreciation Day is a day devoted to celebrate the impact teachers make in the lives of students. One of the many campus educators, Dr. Karen Walters, teaches biology and zoology.

Dr. Walters shares how she enjoys being able to teach in a Christian environment.

“Teaching at FCS is a huge privilege,” Walters said. “As a Christian and a biologist, it is the best of both worlds. I love exploring God’s creation with students and giving them a chance to learn biology from a Biblical worldview. FCS is a great community for teachers and students. There is a spirit of cooperation, support and teamwork.”

One lesson that Dr.Walters tries to teach her students is to “Seek truth-there is no conflict between God & science. Be bold and stand for your beliefs.”

Observed on Tuesday of the first full week of May, Teacher Appreciation Day took place on May 9. To recognize campus teachers, Superintendant Jeremy Brown purchased customized Starbucks coffee/beverages for all educators and staff.

English 10 and yearbook adviser, Andrea Donaghe, appreciates Brown’s offer. While teaching on different campuses in the past, Donaghe has been given gifts and notes by administrators as a way of appreciating her work.

“Fresno Christian’s Superintendant Jeremy Brown purchased Starbuck’s drinks for every single person on staff,” Donaghe said. “That was a very nice email to receive knowing that was going to happen. He even took our orders specialized and size was no matter. I took him up on his offer of a venti chai tea latte no water no foam non-fat. It’s very nice of Superintendant Brown to offer that.”

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Zoology student Joshua Villa, ‘18, explains why he appreciates Walters’ willingness to assist students.

“I like that she is willing to sit down and explain the subject to you if you don’t know it,” Villa said. “What makes her a good teacher is that she knows how to explain whatever subject we are learning at that time. The projects we do are fun and it helps us learn better.”

AP biology student Joey Huang, ’18, talks about the impact that Walters has on her life.

“Doctor is always a joy to be around with: she’s encouraging, knowledgeable,” Huang said. “She doesn’t lack a sense of humor either. She’s like a mentor, a friend and an adult that guides me; she’s more than a teacher.

“Her class is always energetic and hands-on, you get to experience a lot of things instead of simply taking in the theories,” Huang continued. “She tries really hard to make her students comfortable with learning difficult stuff and really encourages every single one of them. The biggest life lesson I learned from her [is] God is in control of all and nothing can be against him, science included.”

Another AP biology student Dana Kwon, ’17, shares her feelings about how helpful Walters is in and out of class.

“As a teacher, Dr. Walters is very encouraging to every student and gives us energy through the classes,” Kwon said. “I really appreciate her. She never gave up on teaching me even though it was difficult for her. Her class is not just taking notes. Instead, she assigns projects such as building models, presentations, and research projects.”

Over the course of her four years at FC, Dr. Walters teaches students not only lessons in biology but also in life. When students, parents or supporters see a teacher in the hallway, consider thanking them for what they continue to do on a daily basis both in and outside the classroom.

For more articles please read: Students celebrate Cinco de Mayo or Senior films campus marketing videos .

This writer can be reached via twitter @MatthewSue1 and via email Matthew Sue.