2018-2019 Teacher of the Year & Scholarship Awardees
Fakhria Luna - teaches World History and AP World History
How did you get to Reynolds?
I taught at rural schools for over nine years and was ready to make a change.
How did what you had heard about RJR match for what you actually found at RJR?
Coming from Randolph County, I knew very little about Reynolds High School. I looked at the school report card and read reviews before I interviewed here. What I found exceeded any expectations I could ever have.
What is an average day like at school for you?
An average day consists of me coming in around 8:00 am, grading papers, answering emails, and printing what I need. I then welcome my students to class and we get started on the plan for the day. Each day and class is different, because each student is different, and that is what makes each day fun and unpredictable.
Being a teacher of History, what are the courses you instruct at RJR (and please give a brief description of each different course)?
During the course of a year I teach four different subjects. I teach two classes of World History. In World History we cover the history of the world beginning with ancient civilizations. This is one of my favorite subjects to teach because of all the stories I can tell as I teach the content. I also teach AP World History. This course is a year-long course that meets every other day. It is designed for the self-motivated student that enjoys history. I especially enjoy teaching this class, because of the discussions we are able to have. I teach International Relations, which is an elective course in Social Studies. In this course we look at how the various players on our National stage as well as the International stage make policies that impact us all. Last semester I taught a section oof World Geography as well.
How would you size up the RJR student body?
In one word diverse. RJR is a big school with diverse students from all walks of life, as well as from all over the world. Our students are very talented, and those talents never cease to amaze me.
What is your family life like?
On June 26th my husband and I will celebrate our 10 year anniversary. We have three beautiful children together. We have two sons and one daughter, who was the youngest (3). My boys are 7 and 5. My oldest attends Speas Global Elementary School and is enrolled in the Spanish immersion program there. As a family we love going to various science centers, parks, zoos and aquariums.
Why did you go into teaching as a career?
I come from a family of teachers. My uncle was a high school teacher, and my aunt was an elementary school teacher. My dad taught history for many years, and then went on to become a principal. I originally went to school to become a lawyer, and majored in history. My passion in history began there. My counselor as well as my dad talked me into becoming a high school history teacher. I was hesitant at first because I never saw myself as a teacher. I now know that teaching chose me, and I am more than grateful for it. There is no other career I would rather have.
What are your goals and aspirations?
I will definitely continue teaching for many years to come. I would eventually like to get out of the classroom and mentor others so they too can succeed in this profession.
Chelsea Hignite
What did you like (and dislike) academically about RJR?
Academically, I liked that RJR offered challenging classes where I could push myself. Although difficult at times, I always felt that I had teachers there to support me and help me to succeed. I enjoy pushing myself, and I am thankful that RJR offered me the opportunity to take challenging classes. Although my academic experience at RJR was wonderful overall, if I had to pick something I disliked academically it would be that some of the teachers seem to be more concerned about the AP exam at the end of the year than students absorbing and maintaining the information.
What “after hours” school activities did you participate in?
I was a member the Dancing Boots, Dance Company, Latin Club, Girls Council (10th and 11th grade years), and Track Team (10th grade).
What did you like (and dislike) “socially” about our RJR?
Socially I liked that most everyone I encountered at RJR was kind and welcoming. I was able to make many friends from different friend groups, and get to know people who were passionate about so many different things.
Who was (or were) your favorite teacher(s) and/or coach(es), and why?
I loved all my teachers at RJR, but one who stands out is Mr. Allen. Mr. Allen always goes above and beyond for his students. He is kind and understanding and funny. Mr. Allen is a teacher who has made a forever impact on my life, and I am so thankful I had the opportunity to take his class. My favorite coach my time at RJR is the dance team coach Mrs. Reese. Coach Reese is always there for her students, and pushes us to be the best we can be. She has made a huge impact on my life, as she has not only offered me dance corrections but also life advice. I am so thankful to know Mrs. Reese and to have had the opportunity to learn from her.
What does an average day at RJR entail?
For me an average day at RJR (before I started taking Career Center classes) started by hanging out in the library with friends. Then I would attend two classes. Then it will be time for lunch, which was often my personal favorite part of the day. I loved getting to eat lunch outside at the picnic tables on nice weather days and sometimes there was even live music. Then I would attend two more classes. At the end of the day I often had Dancing Boots practice. I always loved going to Dance Team practice because I could catch up with some of our best friends and be active before starting homework. Every day at RJR was unique and fun in its own way.
What will you best remember about going to Reynolds?
From my years at Reynolds I will best remember all the wonderful people I met and was able to form meaningful relationships with. I also will always remember the super fun football and basketball games. Dancing at the games and being a part of the school spirit is something I will never forget.
What was your favorite class you took (and why), and what was your hardest class you took?
My favorite class I took at RJR was Dance Honors 3 and 4. Dance is my passion. The dance department at RJR is so welcoming and inclusive. I always looked forward to dance, as I was able to take a break from the academic classes and do my favorite thing in the world. The hardest class I took at RJR was AP US History under Mr. Clevenger my junior year. History has never been my best subject, making this class challenging to me. However, Mr. Clevenger was a fantastic teacher, and AP US History ended up being one of my favorite classes during my time at RJR.
What would you change at RJR (if you could)?
I love everything at RJR, but one area of improvement I have noticed would be the math department.
Where are you going next year (school-wise), and what will you be majoring in (if you know)?
I will be attending UNC Chapel Hill next year, and I'm so excited. I am currently planning to major in Biology and minor in Dance.
Is there anything else you want to tell the RJ alumni about the four years you spent at Reynolds High School?
I could not have asked for a better school experience. I have so many wonderful memories that I will carry with me throughout life. I have met amazing people. Students and teachers both, that have shaped who I am today. I am beyond thankful for every day I spent at RJR, and it is so bittersweet to have to say goodbye. Reynolds truly is a special place and I always will carry it in my heart.
Jack Peatross
What did you like (and dislike) academically about RJR?
The teachers that made class fun.
Tutoring was offered if you needed help.
I had an oriental teacher for math that I couldn't understand hardly one word she said.
Changes in math teachers during the year math department was weak and I don't have confidence in myself in math.
I like how teachers get to know you even if you don't have them.
What “after hours” activities did you participate in?
Latin Club, varsity Lacrosse, Young Life.
What did you like (and dislike) “socially” about RJR?
Everyone is friendly.
RJR is very diverse and we all know each other and respect each other.
All my friends are there.
I'm in classes with my friends.
I liked how lunch was outside.
I would have liked to have been able to go off campus for lunch.
Who was (or were) your favorite teacher(s) and coach(es), and why?
Mr. Clevenger - AP U.S. History, Key Club advisor.
Mr. Wiley - Civics and Economics.
Coach Scott Sanders - lacrosse.
Coach Jim O'Neill - lacrosse.
Coach Kostas - lacrosse.
Coach Martin – weightlifting.
Coach Billings - PE.
Mrs. Sartan - English 4 Honors.
Mr. Allen - English 2 Seminar.
They all made me feel welcome and made me feel loved when I was around them.
What did an average day at RJR entail?
Learning, laughing, seeing friends, personal growth.
What will you best remember about going to Reynolds?
Spending the last four years with my best friends. My teammates on the lacrosse field and all the teachers that helped me on my way.
What was your favorite class you took (and why), and what was the hardest class you took?
AP United States History. Mr. Clevenger really made the class fun by interacting with us and engaging us in meaningful discussions.
Probably health because it is boring.
What would you change at RJR (if you could)?
Class length (too long).
Class size (too big).
More AP courses to taught at Reynolds.
Where are you going next year (school-wise), and what will you be majoring in (if you know)?
High Point University - undecided.
Is there anything else you want to tell the RJR Alumni about the four years you spent at Reynolds High School?
It is an honor to receive this award, especially since my grandmother, Mom, and sister all attended Reynolds High. I wouldn't have wanted to spend the past four years anywhere else.