Spotlight on: Hollie Wolanski
June 2026 High School Teacher of the Month
The Student Council decides monthly student and teacher awards with a specific category each month. The category for June 2026 was “academic excellence” for students and “academic role model” for teachers.
The Senior Student of the Month awards go to two seniors per month who are nominated and voted on by Student Council members in grades 9-11.
The High School Teacher of the Month award goes to one teacher per month who is nominated and voted on by Student Council members in grades 9-12. All Teachers of the Month become eligible to become Teacher of the Year in June.
The June 2026 Senior Students of the Month are Johnny Xiao and Maggie Bray, and the June 2026 High School Teacher of the Month is Hollie Wolanski.
Below is a Q&A with Hollie Wolanski, who teaches mathematics (grades 7-12) and has worked in education for 26 years.
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Q. How did it feel to be recognized as Teacher of the Month?
A. I am very honored to be recognized as an academic role model. I strive each day to help students academically as well as just being an honest, caring person. I try to make the content more understandable, yet challenging, for all learners.
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Q. What originally inspired you to become an educator?
A. When I went to college, I was majoring in accounting. Within the first semester, I realized that accounting was not for me. I could not imagine myself sitting in an office all day, crunching numbers and completing spreadsheets. I enjoyed mathematics and helping others, so I felt becoming an educator would be a good fit for me.
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Q. What do you hope students remember most after leaving your classroom?
A. I hope students remember that I was an understanding, honest teacher that made math class not miserable. I also want them to know that I’m still available if they need anything after graduation as well.
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Q. How do you encourage students to believe in their abilities and push themselves academically?
A. We’re all good at something! Even if math is not your thing, you need to at least put forth effort, be an active listener and ask questions.
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Q. Can you share a moment with a student or class that reminded you why teaching matters?
A. There isn’t a particular moment that I recall, but I do enjoy the moment when students “get it” and understand the material. That is the best! I enjoy seeing students’ confidence grow as we progress through the school year.
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Q. What advice would you give to future teachers entering the profession?
A. Be patient, be willing to grow, you will make mistakes, and ask colleagues for help.
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