The social studies department that is offered at Wheeling Park High School is a phenom of how to fully experience the Park–and it’s all due to teachers in the department. All of the teachers show dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment and dedication to teaching and engaging students. One teacher in particular–Mrs. Farrow knows how to keep students involved in her class.
Mrs. Farrow teaches 10th-grade US history and 11th-grade contemporary history classes, along with coaching the Wheeling Park cross country team. Mrs. Farrow credits her passion for running because of her time on the Wheeling Park cross-country team when she attended. She explained why she wanted to then become the coach of the team, and why she loves the sport.
“I love cross country and wanted to be a part of it because it takes guts. It is a rough sport, but it is so empowering. I love to cheer for our athletes and see them reach their goals. Everyone is always so positive and uplifting in this sport,” said Farrow.
Not only does Mrs. Farrow show positivity in a sports environment, but inside the classroom as well. She works hard to engage students in lessons, and make sure they understand and gain knowledge from her class.
Ms. Mamakos is a fellow social studies teacher and has known Mrs. Farrow for 12 years after Mrs. Farrow was her student teacher.
“Mrs. Farrow is an amazing teacher. She goes out of her way to make sure that she is able to teach to every level of student in her classroom. She creates innovative lessons to keep her students motivated and excited to learn. She is always trying out new things to accomplish this goal,” said Mamakos.
When asked why she chose history she explained how it has always been her favorite subject, because you get to take a deeper look into what people have gone through throughout their lives.
“I think on some level when I teach history, it’s my way of celebrating the accomplishments of others, empathizing with their stories, and just exploring humankind and who we are today. I especially enjoy American history because it directly affects our lives right now,” said Farrow.
Aside from Mrs. Farrow’s radiating positivity is her ability to make deep connections with students.
“One of my favorite parts of teaching, outside of connecting with students, is encouraging them to find their talents and interests. It makes me happy to see them succeed and gain confidence in themselves,” said Farrow.
She not only makes students feel welcome, and appreciated, but she also makes connections with her colleagues.
“Mrs. Farrow takes the time to get to know each and every one of her students. She is the best listener which leads to students seeking her out just to talk with her. Mrs. Farrow has a way of making her students, colleagues, and friends feel at ease. She is a calming force who truly cares about the people around her,” said Mamakos.
These connections with her students seem as rewarding enough, but Mrs. Farrow explained how students showing their appreciation is meaningful to her, and really all teachers.
“Every once in a while, I’ll receive little things like a note or a gift. Not every day is perfect, but when a student or parent reaches out to show appreciation for who I am or what I do it reminds me that even the rough days are important and meaningful. Teaching is definitely a career that can give a person a sense of fulfillment.” said Farrow.
In the 25-26 school year, Mrs. Farrow will be taking on a new role as a school counselor at Wheeling Park High School. She is very excited for this next step in her career, and though it may come with many new challenges she is ready for it.
“I have found in teaching that many students are unsure of themselves. They sometimes do not feel capable or ‘enough.’ But they are. One of my favorite parts of teaching, outside of connecting with students, is encouraging them to find their talents and interests. It makes me happy to see them succeed and gain confidence in themselves. I’m excited to take on a new role but continue to develop positive relationships and encourage them in life,” said Farrow.
Overall, history is something that has been made and continues to be made, and it’s the people who teach that history to younger generations that keep history alive. Mrs. Farrow is a great demonstration of teachers who find deeper meaning in history and continue to strive to help children learn.
