After a year of teaching at a different school, Science Teacher Christina Whitley has returned to Northwest High School (NWHS). Whitely’s return has sparked questions all over the school on why she decided to return.
At the beginning of the 2023-2024 school year, students discovered Whitely had left her job at Northwest. This came as a shock to several students who had close relationships with her. Senior Preston Schram felt like something was missing when Whitely left.
“I felt like I had lost another adult I could talk to,” said Schram.
For many students, having a trustworthy adult they can speak to is something they look forward to while attending school.
Even though Whitely did not have anything against NWHS, she had her reasons for leaving.
“A friend of mine called me from another school and said they needed a chemistry teacher…” said Whitely.
The school she left for was focused on math and science, which greatly motivated her to leave. Whitely felt that she had made the correct choice.
Another important reason was that one of her daughters went to the center. Being close to family is another critical factor of a new career mainstay.
People have swarmed Whitely with questions on why she came back. Although under the pressure of such questions, Whitely was not reluctant to provide the needed answers.
“There were some things I missed about being in a mainstream setting,” said Whitely.
One important reason Whitely stated was that, because of the schedule, she felt as though she did not have a deeper connection with all her students. This was very important to her due to how successful students can be when connected to their educators.
On top of not having those deeper connections, Whitely also missed Northwest events, such as Spirit Week, Homecoming, and football games. Whitely clearly enjoys the hype and the adrenaline rush of such events, which is why she missed them.
“I really like the culture here,” said Whitely.
Science Department Head Rhonda Drumm acknowledges Whitely as a valued person at Northwest, specifically in the science program. Her skill set and experience were a welcome aspect to the Northwest Community, and it was evident that her return was met with open arms.
“I am excited to have her back on our team and know that she will create an amazing physics program here at Northwest,” said Drumm.
Schram is also excited to have her back. He cannot wait to learn more about her and have another person he can go to when he needs support.
Whitely’s students are collectively excited to see what she will bring this upcoming school year. Ecstatic events, deep student-to-teacher relationships, and many other factors play a key role in guaranteeing that Whitely’s future at Northwest will be one full of success.
