TUCSON, Ariz. (KGUN) — Marian Johnson has a special place in her heart for Amphi High School.
“I actually started working here as a secretary in 2003. I started teaching in 2011, so this is my 20th year here,” says Johnson.
But her time at the high school goes back even further than that. Johnson says, “I’m also an alumni, I graduated from Amphi High School.”
As a special education math teacher, being nominated for the Arizona Athletics High School Teacher of the Year Award was unexpected.
Johnson says, “I’m actually kind of surprised. It’s not something we do as teachers, to expect people to recognize our work.”
She says the job comes with many ups and downs: “Everyday lends a new challenge because not only are we dealing with things in the classroom, we’re dealing with things students have to do at home.”
But for Johnson, the work is worth it. “I could be having the worst day and then one of these kids makes a joke and it makes your day better,” says Johnson.
Having played a number of roles at the high school, Johnson says there’s one thing she loves most.
“Watching the students grow both academics and as people,” Johnson says.
Johnson is one of the nine finalists. The winner will be announced on Saturday, Feb. 18.
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Heidi Alagha is an anchor and reporter for KGUN 9. Heidi spent 5 years as the morning anchor in Waco where she was named the best anchor team by the Texas Associated Press. Share your story ideas and important issues with Heidi by emailing heidi.alagha@kgun9.com or by connecting on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
