At the Piedmont at El Reno football game, El Reno teacher Kandy Connor and Principal Tim Pounds were presented a check for Science and Math education at Piedmont High School by the people of Oklahoma Oil & Natural Gas.
This support will be benefiting Piedmont STEM programs and teachers. Kandy Connor is one of the staff members benefiting from the donation.
Tell us a little bit about yourself. Your hobbies, your passions.
I have been married for 30 years to the most amazing husband who encourages me to go after my dreams and fight for what is important. I have two amazing daughters, Samantha and Riley. They encourage me to be adventurous and full of life. I learn something new from them everyday. My biggest blessing is my family. My personal passions are running and traveling. I would love to hike and run my way through all parts of the Earth. Plan on running the Oklahoma City Marathon in April.
What classes do you teach?
I have taught most science subjects (all at the high school level) but biology is my passion. I love teaching students how to never stop asking questions. Be critical and skeptical. Show them the impact they will have on this world through their knowledge and curiosity.
Where did you go to college and what led you into teaching?
I went to Mercy College in New York for a degree in veterinary technology. I moved to Florida and they had a transition to teaching program. As a mother of two, l thought this would be a great job so I could be there for my family. Turned out to be the most amazing, rewarding career. It allowed me to be there for my family but also make a difference in the lives of so many teenagers
Who mentored you into the educator you are today?
Dr. Joe Shewmaker and Tim Large from Florida were amazing mentors for me. They influenced how I interact with students and also my love for science. If it had not been for them, I would not be the teacher I am today.
What is great about your current school?
I love El Reno. I have been here for 13 years. It is the perfect size school with a community that always rallies around the school and teachers.
Why is teaching Science and Math so important?
Science and Math are life. Everything you do in life includes science. When students learn how to question and be curious, it allows them to make more of an impact on this world. I love to see the ‘a-ha’ moments with students. The more that happens, the greater the chance them become life-long learners.
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