Today’s teacher spotlight is on Ms.Runkle, who teaches 10th and 11th English at Sylvan Hills High School. She is known for being a positive presence at the school.
Ms. Runkle said she became a teacher because of her brother. I was inspired by my brother’s experience,” Runkle said. “He struggled in school, and I saw the impact a caring teacher could have on his performance and confidence. The teachers who took the time to support him helped shape him into the person he is today. I also had my own experiences with teachers who cared deeply about me and my success. I wanted that difference for kids.”
What keeps her passionate about teaching is the students. “They keep me on my toes,” Runkle said. “And I love getting to know such a mix of personalities. I’ve always had a heart for all kinds of people. My dad was very involved in supporting the homeless community in Little Rock, and he would often bring me along. I met people from many different backgrounds, which helped shape my perspective and compassion for others. That same passion carries into my work with students.”
One thing Ms.Runkle enjoys most about teaching is seeing her students. “I enjoy getting to know my students,” Runkle said. “But I also love the staff. The support I’ve had at this school from the beginning until now is unlike anything I’ve experienced in other jobs. I’m surrounded by people who genuinely want me to succeed, enjoy my experience, and stay at this school.”
One of the things Ms. Runkle wants her students to remember from her class is “Carpe Diem.”
“I hope my students remember to seize the day,” Runkle says. “It doesn’t feel like it was that long ago that I graduated, and time has moved so quickly. I want to encourage them not to rush through life, but to appreciate and make the most of every moment.”
Ms. Runkle hopes students learn how to stay positive in her class. She wants her students to remember that it’s okay to make mistakes. When asked about a memorable moment, Ms. Runkle had this to say: “There have been many memorable moments, like teaching fun lessons such as mock trials with The Crucible or Jeopardy-style review games. One moment that stands out recently was when I got engaged. I’m not one to share personal news right away, but somehow a few students found out. Their reactions were hilarious, and now they keep asking to be invited to the wedding.”
Outside of school, Ms.Runkle enjoys travel,escape rooms, and baking. “I have a few different hobbies, and I think my students have heard about most of them by now,” Runkle said. “I love to travel, and I’m currently leading an EF tour this summer. I also enjoy escape rooms—there’s something about solving puzzles that really excites me. Lastly, I love to bake. This is a newer hobby for me, since I used to avoid the oven at all costs, but my summer job at Kassi’s Cookies in Conway turned into a passion that I really enjoy.”
