Grade/Subject teaching: American literature, Grade 11

School: South Side High School, Fort Wayne Community Schools

Education: Bachelor’s in English teaching from IPFW and master’s of education at Indiana Wesleyan University

Years teaching: 7

Born and raised: Fort Wayne

Current hometown: Fort Wayne

Family: Married with two children

Last book read: “My Antonia” by Willa Cather

Favorite teacher: Rick Allen at Waynedale Elementary

Favorite class in school: English/journalism

Favorite teaching memory: When I was teaching freshmen Language Lab, I did a kindergarten project with them. Over a few weeks, my students researched, read and wrote their own children’s books. We then took the books to neighboring elementary schools, and my students read them to their classes. It was a very satisfying and exciting project, and all the kids enjoyed it.

Why did you decide to join a LEAD school? What’s exciting about working there? I was already at South Side, and I love it here! I was lucky enough to be asked back – and I don’t think I could ever justify willingly leaving all the things I love about this school.

What’s your favorite part of starting out the new year? Getting to know my new students.

Nominator: Cassie Browne, senior at South Side

Reason for nomination: Mrs. Bontempo, my former English teacher, has been a very big influence in my life. She took pride in teaching us and enjoyed getting to know each of us individually. She inspired me to become an English teacher, and I couldn’t be happier knowing what I want to do in life now! Even this year, I go and see her before and after school. With all of the changes going around in our district, it’s amazing to have that familiar role model figure that you can still turn to.