Whitney Misak is Cordell’s seventh grade science, high school physical science and zoology teacher and softball coach. With only four years teaching at Cordell Schools, her impact in the lives of her students and athletes stretches far beyond the classroom and field landing her in the spotlight. Thank you for all you do for our students and athletes. Read more below about Mrs. Misak, this week’s Cordell Blue Devil Faculty Spotlight.
Can you tell us a little about yourself? Who you are, what you like to do, how long you’ve been here, etc.
My name is Whitney Misak. Family is extremely important to me. My husband of 5 years is Matthew Misak and we have two beautiful son’s. Mark is 4 years old and in pre-k at Cordell and Maverick is only 10 weeks old and so far a very good baby. We enjoy being outside as much as possible, playing card games, and watching our favorite teams play. This is my 4th year to be a teacher at Cordell High School.
What are your goals for the second half of the school year?
My goal for the second half of the year is to help all of my students expand their scientific knowledge and vocabulary. Create a fun learning environment and a safe place my students can be to know someone cares about them.
What has been your favorite moment from this year?
My favorite moment this year has been the birth of my son. My favorite moment in the school year was the softball season. Watching these girls grow not only as softball players but also good people is the reason I love coaching.
What was it that made you want to be a teacher/coach?
I always knew I would be a coach of some kind. Both my parents are teachers and coaches. Watching them with their students and the joy it still brings them both was something I knew I wanted to be a part of.
What subject/grade do you teach? Why did you choose that specific one?
I teach 7th grade science, high school physical science, and zoology. I enjoy high school over elementary because you get more students that really have an idea of what they want to do with their lives and you get to mold and nurture that and hopefully impact their lives in a positive way.
What motivates you to be the best teacher you can be for your students? What are your intentions when you walk into the classroom?
The students for sure. Either in the classroom or on the field when they finally start to understand what you have been trying to teach them you get to see the growth there’s nothing better. My intentions when I walk into the classroom is to be a positive role model and influence as many students as I can.
When you’re not teaching, how do you like to spend your time?
I love spending time with friends and family, watching/playing baseball and football, nothing beats a good game of spades, and working on all the miscellaneous projects I have going on at one time.
Do you have any advice for your students and athletes?
Effort. You don’t have to be perfect at anything but you should try your best at everything.