DT Adds New Math Teacher

                     Thede’s passion for math brings her close to home

By Olivia Hoppe 

Doniphan-Trumbull welcomes a new math teacher, Ms. Emma Thede, who teaches four math classes. On top of that, she plans to assistant coach the DT girls basketball team. Whether its leading her students to victories in the classroom, or on the court, Thede will lead her students to success. 

Thede lived in Grand Island until eighth grade. After her eighth grade year, she moved to Waverly.  After graduating college, her family moved to St. Paul, the place she has called home for the past four years. Her love for math started in high school, while tutoring kids which led her to her career choice.  

“I really loved getting to help other people make connections and learn to appreciate math,” said Thede.

After high school, Thede pursued her interest in teaching and went to the University of Nebraska at Kearney. The subject of math interested her because she would hear people saying they hate math, and she wanted to change the way they thought. 

“I knew that a good math teacher could make their class enjoyable and give students an appreciation for math. I wanted to help other students find enjoyment in math because it can be and should be fun!” said Thede. 

She believes that everyone loves math, they just have to find ways where it works for them. Teaching allows her to help students think in ways that will help them in the future. Whether it's using these skills in their careers or in real life, Thede plans to help her students become critical thinkers. She is preparing her students for life. 

“I want students to leave my class as problem solvers and critical thinkers! But I’d also like them to be able to grow, find their passions, express themselves, and become a better version of themselves everyday! And I hope I’m able to provide the environment for them to do that,” said Thede. 

Sports has always been one of her passions. In highschool, she participated in basketball, volleyball and soccer. While in college, Thede helped coach the St. Paul Bobcats, along with substituting in classrooms.  She plans to assist the girls head basketball coach, Mr. Quinton Hite. Not only is she influencing her students in the classroom, she will impact her players on the court too. 

“I always loved sports and being a coach keeps me involved in athletics. But it also gives me the opportunity to make an impact on students outside of school and the gym. I get to help the players develop skills like leadership, quick decision making, team work, and many other valuable skills,” said Thede. 

Teaching is not all about who can learn the most. It is about helping students learn life lessons and having experiences. Thede, a first year teacher,  plans to help students learn to love math and think about all of the different ways they will use math in real life. 

Sophomore Gracie Richter, a member of the geometry class stated, “Ms. Thede is a very good teacher who helps us out when we need help. She also has a good personality and is always happy.” 

Ms. Thede assists her student in solving the problem.