![Emily Merkle named Peary Teacher of the Year]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1641937145/tulsaschoolsorg/wuc9dl4tjapulcdq33be/EmilyMerkle.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1641937145/tulsaschoolsorg/wuc9dl4tjapulcdq33be/EmilyMerkle.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1641937145/tulsaschoolsorg/wuc9dl4tjapulcdq33be/EmilyMerkle.jpg","width":691}])
Fourth grade math and science teacher Emily Merkle has been selected as the 2021-2022 Peary Teacher of the Year!
This is Merkle's 3rd year at Peary. She said she originally hoped to become a librarian but quickly realized she belonged in the classroom.
"My favorite part of the job is definitely the kids! My students keep me on my toes, and I never know what to expect day to day," said Merkle. "Sometimes they make such profound statements that I can't believe it came from a ten-year-old. Sometimes they have me laughing so hard I can't breathe. And sometimes they challenge me to the point I'm at a loss for words. But no matter what, it is an honor to be part of their education journey and to watch them succeed and grow. They give me daily hope that the future of our world is in good hands!"
In addition to teaching, Merkle coaches the Peary PRIDE Cheer and Dance Squad.
"This has been such a fun way to get to know our Peary kids outside of my classroom while boosting our school spirit. We have 30 members this year! They have been working hard to learn cheers and a dance routine so we can host a performance showcase at the end of the year."