Sydney Denekamp | Staff Intern
Greg Munce- Business and Technology
University Attended
I graduated from the University of Sioux Falls with a Masters Degree in Education.
Previous jobs
I previously taught FACS at George McGovern Middle School
Family
I am married to my wife Colette for a little over 28 years. We have three adult children Sydney, Hannah and Isaac.
Hobbies
I love the sport of High School Wrestling, coached at Sioux Falls Washington last year.
Additional Comments
I love being able to share my experiences and see how it can help students. I think West Central is a great School. For Parents I would say to have your children to show up to school, stay safe and be ready to learn and participate.
Amy Halling- 4th grade teacher in Humboldt
University attended
I graduated from Dakota State University in May 2019.
Previous jobs
I was previously a Staff Accountant at a bank for about a decade prior to going back to school to become a teacher. I spent my first-year teaching 3rd grade with the Sioux Falls School District. This is my second-year teaching.
Family
Ryan (husband), Vanessa (daughter, 6th grade, 12 years-old), and Jack (son, 2nd grade, 7.5 years-old)
Hobbies
Reading, camping, spending time with family and friends
Additional Responsibilities
none with the school. I’ve been a volunteer with Girls Scouts, Cub Scouts, and BSA for 7 years.
Why did you become a teacher?
I have a lot of teachers in my family and I was always inspired to be like them. Every year, when it was back to school season, I would wish I had become a teacher. When my daughter was two years-old I decided there was no time like the present! It was scary but I am so thankful that I took the leap. I look forward to seeing my students every day and watching them learn and grow!
What are your first impressions of West Central?
I absolutely love it! West Central has been a breath of fresh air and I am so thankful to be here. The administration is helpful and so welcoming. All of my coworkers and employees at the school are friendly and always willing to help.
What do you want parents to know about your teaching style? How can parents assist this year?
There is no one-size-fits-all teaching style. I prefer to get to know my students and learn how they learn best. I then incorporate that into teaching of lessons so that everyone has the opportunity to learn how they learn best. I haven’t been with the school for every long but I love that parents are ready and willing to help. I know that if I need to reach out to a parent for advice or concerns about their child that they are approachable and willing to help.
How has COVID affected your job?
Never did I imagine my first-year teaching would end in a pandemic! It was quite the rollercoaster but a huge learning experience. I grew, as a teacher and parent a lot! Suddenly I was teaching from home and keeping my own children in a different district entirely, on their learning paths as well. I did whatever it took to make sure my students still had the opportunity to learn and provide valuable lessons for them. It has taken a little getting used to, this year, with wearing masks, sanitizing hands, cleaning desks, and gentle reminders but it has been great to be back in the classroom with my students.