Rebekah Wendland is a Teacher of the Month for Derby High School. Becky currently teaches World History and Reality 101 and is in her second year with the high school. Not only is she receiving this award she recently received the Kansas Horizon Award as well.
“I was surprised and so excited! In my mind, with the caliber and talent levels of my classmates from ESU, I truly didn’t believe I stood a chance,” said Becky. “As a fourth-generation educator, it was very special to have my mom, who is a Title I teacher at Woodson USD 366, included in the Zoom meeting when Dr. Watson announced me as a recipient!”
This year Becky is most looking forward to the opportunity to challenge her students.
“I love seeing them individualize and grow in and out of my classroom,” said Becky. “Leaving the classroom last spring was a challenge for everyone, and I needed the social interaction and connections with my students and colleagues, I’m very thankful to be back.”
Being a fourth-generation teacher, Beck truly loves what she gets to do every day and she knows exactly what inspires her to keep going on the tough days.
“I love history and teaching, but on the hard days, the days I second guess my career, it’s the kids and the relationships I have with them and my colleagues that inspire me,” Becky said.
Graduating High School from Yates Center in 2014, she then went on to Emporia State University to earn a bachelor’s degree in social science education, and she is now working on a master’s from Emporia as well.
She doesn’t only teach for the high school she is also a senior class co-sponsor, with dreams of one day helping with the female athletics department.
In her free time, you can catch Becky playing golf, attending some K-State games, as well as traveling.