December 2022 Teacher of the MonthLauren Yount is a Sixth and Seventh Grade Science and AVID teacher at Classen School of Advanced Studies Middle School, where she has developed her philosophy of creating equitable classrooms where both students and teachers are valued. Lauren has acquired a Masters of Education in Teaching English as a Second Language from the University of Central Oklahoma, a Masters of Education in Higher Education from the University of Oklahoma and a Bachelors of Arts in Applied Communication from Oklahoma Baptist University. She also became dually certified in early childhood and elementary education in 2015 and has since gained experience teaching various grades including Kindergarten, Second Grade, Fifth Grade, and now Sixth and Seventh Grade.
Lauren truly believes that when a student knows they are supported by a teacher not only in the classroom but in all aspects of their life, it can greatly improve the student-teacher relationship and she considers it her responsibility to her students to meet them where they are by providing a space where they know they are enough, where they can make mistakes, ask questions and learn together without fear of judgment.
January 2023 Teacher of the Month
Pictured: Jim Loftis, Kim Henry, Mark Neumeister, Teacher of the Month Jason Smith, Garnet Smith - mother of the Teacher, Gabrielle Bryant – Niece of the Teacher, Janet Vernon)
In cooperation with the Mayor's office and City Council, the Rotary Club of Okla. City recognizes an outstanding teacher in our community.
Jason Smtih has taught at Crooked Oak High School for the past seven years, where he has developed a classroom in which the students are excited about learning and truly feel that they are valued and cared for. Jason received his Bachelor of Social Studies-Education from the University of Central Oklahoma and has taught World History, US History, Government, Critical Thinking, Political Science, coached soccer, and continues to be his students biggest supporter and number one champion.
He was the Crooked Oak High School Teacher of the Year for 2015 and 2016.
Jason shares his love of history and learning in such a way that most COHS students will tell you that his class is their favorite. Not only do they learn the material, but Mr. Smith holds the students accountable and to a standard that shows that he believes the best in them and that they can do whatever they set their mind to accomplish.
Jason, in his free time, enjoys reading history books. He maintains strong, positive relationships with the students after they graduate. He cares deeply about all students and wants to not only see them grow in academics but also as contributing members of society.
Congratulations, Jason!