January's New Teacher Spotlight - Ms. Strickland!

Written by: Emily Koehler (‘29)

This month's New Teacher spotlight features Ms. Strickland! This is her first year teaching here at LHS and she said “it's been a joy so far.” This year she is teaching Algebra 1 and Geometry. As we approach the halfway mark in the school year, I interviewed her with a few questions about her teaching experience so far at Lawrence High School. 

Ms. Strickland (right) posing with fellow teacher bestie Ms. Mills (left) at the fall pep rally!

When I asked her about her time teaching at LHS thus far, she said, “It's been a joy to be a part of something that feels like a family.” She finds that all of the staff members, and especially her Math Department, have been incredibly friendly and helpful as she’s found her place at our school. When I asked her about why she wanted to become a teacher, she said that she was inspired by her pre-calculus math teacher her sophomore year of high school. She said that “He's always been such a great role model” and that she looked up to him in a positive way. She remembered how he always taught with lots of energy and how it brings her “joy” to teach. 

Prior to joining us here, Ms. Strickland taught at Dunn Middle School in Trenton and at West Windsor Plainsboro School South. She attended The College of New Jersey and originally wanted to become an engineering major and find a job in the field that specialized in math. When she realized that wasn't her primary interest, she changed from elementary education to secondary education, ultimately deciding that she wanted to teach high schoolers.

Ms. Strickland (3rd from left) took part in DECA Volleyball alongside Mrs. Eggert, Ms. Mills, Ms. Wildermuth, Ms. Janelle McDowell, and Ms. Asha McDowell.

Outside of school, Ms. Strickland enjoys doing crafts like making jewelry and learning how to crochet. She said she enjoys spending time with friends and family as well. Her favorite TV show is The Office, claiming that she could watch it over and over and never get bored. Ms. Strickland's favorite movie is Corpse Bride by Tim Burton and her favorite book series is The Maze Runner series. 

When asked what advice she would give to students, she said that it would be to “make connections, make memories, and to apply yourself. You are only in high school for 4 years, so make the most of these years. Ask your teachers questions. Show yourself how you want to succeed when given challenges. Get involved in the school community. Above all, be your best self.” We want to thank Ms. Strickland for her time in telling us about herself and to welcome her to the Lawrence High School community!