Sigma Brown (by Gabe Brannon)

Fine arts teacher Adam Brown

Although I didn’t meet Mr. Brown until this year, the impact he has had on me has been insurmountable. I never considered joining choir until last year, but if I hadn’t, I would have lost a massive opportunity. He directs both Ankeny High School’s choir and show choir, all while teaching the Music Fundamentals class. 

Even before I was in choir, I always heard from people how much of an immaculate super sigma Mr. Brown was. Students at AHS not only respect Mr. Brown as a teacher but also as a friend. His personality, as well as how nonchalant he is, has shown students that they can trust and depend upon him. Every day for the last few years, students have congregated in his office before school started. Most people aren’t even talking to Brown when in his office; just being there his sigma aura seems to be enough to make people happy. He is extremely knowledgeable and is smart in topics outside of music, and can deal with logistical issues just as well as class ones. 

With the 24-25 school year being his last at AHS, it is more important than ever to show him our appreciation. He will be missed here at AHS, and his legacy will carry on for years to come.

High-spirited Hansen mentors students to success (by Nolan McNulty and Julius Wiegand)

English teacher & Talon adviser Alissa Hansen

Nowadays, “nonchalance” is rampant, especially among high school landscapes. Like a diamond in the ruff, a refreshing and encouraging personality is found in English and Journalism teacher Alissa Hansen, a woman who truly loves and is passionate about what she teaches. 

Taking “Introduction to Journalism” in our junior year, none of us expected to stay in the program; we didn’t even know it was a program you could stay in. But after taking the semester-long course, we learned to love it. We didn’t necessarily start to like the course because of the content, but instead the way it was taught. Being in Hansen’s classroom has had an impact on the three of us, and now we look forward to coming to school specifically for Hansen’s class. 

Upon walking into Hansen’s room fourth period every day, we were immediately met with the sight of enticingly fluffy chairs, greenery wrapping the walls, whimsically realistic stuffed animals, and an eclectic array of Indie and rock music playing overhead. Throughout the class, rather than working on elemental tables, indecipherable math equations, and other tedious busy work, we worked on projects we were genuinely passionate about and excited to create. With the freedom Hansen provided for her students, the three of us discovered a passion that we would pursue for the rest of our lives. A passion for communicating with others, and continuing the art of storytelling, all because of Mrs. Hansen’s teachings.

O’Connell engages and connects with all students. (by Ashley Howard)

Social studies teacher Griffin O’Connell

History was never my favorite subject. I always found it boring, and every teacher seemed to teach it the exact same way. That changed my sophomore year when I took World History with Mr. O’Connell. His simulations are always so fun and memorable, and they’ve helped me gain a much deeper understanding of history. For example, I have learned I would be a terrible assembly line worker, but I could create a pretty decent government. 

He has impacted me as a person because he is always so understanding and willing to work with you. He understands that students are busy and is always putting in effort to make sure that every student in his class is engaged and learning. If I have an issue or question, I know I can always ask him, and he is willing to work with me. He also always teaches with passion and puts in even more than what I would expect. He has made my time at Ankeny High School better through his interesting classes, fun conversations, and his willingness to work with any student.

Superb Speth! (by Toby Landmesser)

Social studies teacher Ruth Speth

I remember the first day of my sophomore year when I stepped into Mrs. Speth’s classroom. I was the unfortunate victim of a scheduling error, which resulted in me being switched from one world history class to another, and as a sophomore, I was fairly nervous. A smile erupted from Mrs. Speth’s face the moment the first bell rang, and I could tell I was in the right place. 

My older sister had told me about Mrs. Speth, the beloved psychology and social studies teacher, with whom she took all 3 classes offered. My sister was not alone. Asking former students of her’s all of them will tell you how amazing Mrs. Speth is to have in any, if not all of her offered classes, and how fun she makes the school year.

Nothing could prepare me for the experiences I have had in Mrs. Speth’s classroom. The way Mrs. Speth teaches has changed me as a student and as a person. Mrs. Speth’s stories showed me the power of laughter, her rants taught me about the bonds you can create through conversation, her passion has made difficult classes enjoyable, difficult classmates close friends, and her do-it-all attitude has inspired me to take on difficult challenges and enjoy them. Mrs. Speth is a light in the hallways of Ankeny High and a memory that will live on forever in my mind.

Bing has students’ best interests at heart (by Sylvia Bartlett)

Science teacher Lori Bing

On the first day of school junior year, walking into a classroom filled with plants and the slight smell of formaldehyde, I was nervous. I knew that an anatomy class wasn’t going to be an easy task, especially on top of the other difficult courses I was taking. But after the first few months, I knew I had nothing to worry about and it was all thanks to Mrs. Bing. She’s always flexible when students, especially those with other difficult courses and extracurriculars, need to move around turn-in dates or even exams. She always tells us, “If you’re not prepared for the test, don’t take it.” Anyone can see that Mrs. Bing truly cares about her students, and wants them to go on to great things in life. She’s not only been an amazing teacher, but also an amazing person, showing her students, especially the girls who’ve taken an interest in science fields, that they can do anything they put their minds to, that no one can stop them, and that they’re meant to be there. 

The effect Mrs. Bing has had on my life and academic career at Ankeny is unexplainably positive. Her willingness to be flexible dates has been nothing short of miraculous, and her genuine care for students and their well-being is seen in everything she does. From the goodie bags she makes and brings to all her AP Biology students before they board the bus to the AP exam, to the plants she continues to take care of after her students are gone, Mrs. Bing is truly one of the most positive and kind people to ever grace the halls of Ankeny High School and the impact she’s had not only on my time here, but on many other students should never be forgotten.

Blossoming Blahunka (by River Phillips)

English teacher and drama director Mollie Jo Blahunka

Transitioning from Southview is a nerve-wracking experience, but the theater department at Ankeny High is the most welcoming environment I have ever been a part of. This acceptance is completely due to Ms. B’s kindness and passion for students in the performing arts. Through dedication and hard work, Ms.B makes sure that we are having fun on and off the stage for every performance, no matter what part we play in the puzzle of the show.

She is always finding new ways to improve our department and engage more people in the joy of theater, behind the scenes and in the spotlight. This year we took on the challenge of including freshmen in our spring musical, and Ms.B continued to foster a thrilling environment with the help of her right-hand man, PJ Hurley. Together these two “drama queens” somehow manage to improve our department every year when I think it can’t get any better. 

Ms. B continues to inspire me to pursue a career in theater education due to the raw passion and optimism that she brings to the auditorium and her acting classes. She has helped me blossom into not only the performer I am becoming but also the person I hope to be one day. Day by day I grow more as a person as she inspires me to care, look past heartache, and work with my peers to make amazing things happen. 

Mrs. McCoy, A true Gryffindor (by Savannah Dye)

P.E. teacher Ashley McCoy 

On my first day of Independent Dual PE, I was immediately thrown into the deep end. The National Guard was visiting, and students were tasked with carrying ammo cases filled with sand across the gym, among many other activities. That day, I met Mrs. McCoy, and I quickly learned that she is a fun-loving teacher who truly enjoys her job and cares deeply for her students and colleagues: a true embodiment of a Gryffindor.

One memorable experience related to Mrs. McCoy was when her husband came to our class to teach us how to chip in golf. Mrs. McCoy is a genuine Harry Potter fan, as shown by her trunk at Trunk or Treat and the decor in her office. Overall, she embodies the true spirit of a Gryffindor and is an exceptional teacher for any student to have, as she lights up the classroom and the people around her.

Cano’s classroom on the corner (by Grady Andersen)

Social studies teacher Sean Cano

Walking into Cano’s classroom, you can immediately see what kind of teacher he is. Seeing a list titled “Bush League” and a bunch of drawings all around the room just invited you in. I have never been fond of learning economics; it was one of the few social studies classes that bore me, but Mr. Cano always kept it lighthearted. From the slideshows that always have something that would draw your attention, to the trashketball games he would not only have for class but do every Friday, there is always something new happening in his classroom. My highlight for him would always be our discussions during class, for almost every single topic. From news, both normal to weird, to fantasy baseball, he is one of the teachers who makes me want to go to school every morning. Even though he has been here for only a few years, the impact he has made to several kids is shown, evidenced by the overflow of grad invites on the wall by the whiteboard. He is someone who truly exemplifies what a teacher should be, and that is why he is one of my favorite teachers I have had the privilege of meeting.

Mr Asmussen: The North Star (by Danny Nguyen)

Social studies teacher Patrick “A” Asmussen

Mr. Asmussen can be described as someone who is really invested in his students, the walls of his classroom are filled with graduation cards and photos of his students, and you can always see him at football games, homecoming, and prom. He is a teacher who wants to see his students grow, have fun, and see them succeed in school and their future endeavors.

The first time I met Mr. Asmussen was when I walked into Advanced Journalism for the first time. At first, I didn’t really talk to him too much, as I focused on writing articles instead of doing videos. When I first started doing a video for my article about school shootings, Mr. Asmussen was a great helping hand and gave me pointers on the basics of video editing and rules. Something I am grateful for is Mr. Asmussen recommending I submit my video for a Crystal Pillar award. This pushed me to improve and add to my video to submit for the Emmys, and it ended up becoming a finalist. Although I didn’t win at the Emmys, it was still a great experience that wouldn’t have happened without Mr. Asmussen’s guidance.

I have had so many fun memories in Mr. Asmussen’s class, including talking about meteorology, Mr. A calling me Needy and talking about politics with him. Mr. Asmussen is a great person to be around, he has so many stories to tell from his life, and fun to talk to. I could not have asked for a better teacher and am thankful for all the time we spent together during my senior year.

Mrs. Walters is not wicked, just wonderful. (by Brogan Smith)

Science teacher Carol Walters

Countless posters depicting anything from National Parks to cell diagrams, intricate puzzles, and a moose antler twice the size of my head decorate Mrs. Walter’s classroom. There is not a single part of that room that is not filled with some sort of trinket or picture, making it one of, if not the most interesting room I have ever learned in. Oddly enough, the room feels empty without its heart, Mrs. Walters.

Like a cell without a nucleus, the entire atmosphere of the classroom is altered by her absence. The atmosphere in question is more of a tough-love type of ordeal, strictly teaching us everything we need to know and more to thoroughly prepare us for our tests. Some students dislike this teaching method, but I just see that as lazy students wanting to mess around in class all day. I prefer the stricter teaching style since I learn something new, and understand concepts and processes on a far deeper level than before. Plus, biology is one of the most interesting classes I have ever taken because Walters is an incredible teacher.

Mrs. Walters is much more laid-back and fun outside the classroom, constantly joking around about her age and telling stories. Mrs. Walters also loves to help others, like when she wrote a letter of recommendation that got me into the National Science Honor Society (NSHS), which she is also involved in. Walters is also one of the main faculty members heading Ankeny High School’s Mentors in Violence Prevention (MVP) program. The program aims to make Ankeny a safer and more accepting place, which is being accomplished bit by bit.

Mrs. Walters has been an incredible teacher to countless students inside and out of the classroom. Thank you for all you have done for us!

English with charismatic Mr. Cowger is a blast! (by Ryan Cox)

English teacher Jim Cowger

Mr. Cowger is the best teacher and friend in the school because of the way he is able to storytell and interact with students at Ankeny high school. Everyday I walk into AP Lang I never know what is to be discussed, always a surprise to what the debates and discussions will hold. 

This is all thanks to Cowger and his excellent teaching style, the way he incites us to think deeper and more critically about our English topics. His insight and wisdom carries years of experience for us to collect and learn from. There is not a moment in which I am not having fun or laughing in Mr Cowger’s room. Well, maybe when I am writing a rhetorical analysis. 

I can’t recall a time in which I didn’t take something out of Mr Cowger’s class and learn something out of it. Mr. Cowger brings his witty and dry humor to the class causing everyone to have a brighter day while also succeeding in a hard college class. His randomness and knowledge of words and literature amazes me every day, as well as his English skills and the advice he gives to all students who need help.

What’s the Dealio, Diiulio? (by McKayla Davis)

Interventionist Katelyn Diiulio

As a sophomore, coming to the high school for the first year can also come with an abundance of emotions. For me, I was eager to make new connections with teachers and classmates. One teacher stood out to me more than the rest: Katelyn Diiulio. Her empathy and compassion for others is like no other. She’s truly a ray of sunshine, and her energy projects onto anybody who passes by. 

Her morning hugs on my way to English became a routine. It first started when I was having a rough week, but our routine hug kept going past that. I knew no matter what, she would be there with open arms—literally. She would greet me with a welcoming smile and ask me how I was doing, or “well, good morning sunshine,” to which I would reply with a groan. 

If I walked into her room, the conversation could go anywhere. She’s heard her fair share of boy drama, issues at home, grade issues, and my feelings. But she’s also heard about my successes, the things I’m looking forward to, and all the details about my first date. When I tell my highs and lows of the day or week, she is right there celebrating with me or grieving with me. I think that’s something special in a person. Thank you for making an impact on me, as I am sure you have for many others.

Kool Ms. K (by Lynae Midkiff)

English teacher and Student Council sponsor Emina Kovacevic

I met Ms Kovacevic on the first day of school in my AP lit class, and she was instantly fun, inspiring, and immediately connected with her students. Ms. K is extremely smart and shows that through her hard work to benefit her students. 

I’ve always loved English class and found it pretty easy, but I needed to be challenged to grow my skills. Ms K’s class was challenging, but her dedication to thoroughly educating her students helped me expand my knowledge and love for the subject.

Despite the fact that she only has one AP Lit class, she goes out of her way to make sure her students are in good standing in her class. Every day, Ms. K goes out of her way to find poems for her only AP Lit class so we can further practice our interpretation skills. Before every in-class essay, she would prepare multiple practice prompts. She would set aside class time for us to practice and take time out of her own to look over our work and tell us what we could do to further improve our skills. She is also the advisor for the student council. With every event they put on, whether it’s senior service day or Prom, she always does a phenomenal job. In these events, she balances her professionalism with school spirit to show the love and respect she has for her career.

Along with giving her effort and attention to our class academically, she has created a personal connection with many students. She is kind and cares about her students’ well-being. There have been many times throughout the year when she has connected with me and other students, asking questions about our extracurricular activities, and having other genuine conversations. She has been to many performances and plays to support my classmates and me throughout the year. She has done a beautiful job of building connections with her students to the point where she still has professionalism and is still respected by her students.

Ms K is a wonderful teacher and an even better person. The hard work she puts forth for her students doesn’t go unrecognized. Her class is fun, and engaging, and I have learned so much from her. Anyone who has had or will have Ms K  as a teacher is an extremely lucky person.