Polk Central Elementary’s teacher of the week is fifth grade teacher Andrea Walter. In her all girls’ class, girls make all the noise, answer all the questions and conduct all the experiments. Just as importantly, girls in her class learn to work with everyone despite varied talents, looks, interests and sometimes-quirky behaviors.

One of her goals at Polk Central has been to improve the outdoor learning spaces. Together with community and high school volunteers, she has planted over 60 trees and built benches, wildlife identification signs and a trail shelter for the campus. She is currently helping build a shade arbor outside the science lab. Walter feels that learning about their natural surroundings helps students develop a sense of place, which will have long-term benefits for the local community and global environment.

Walter grew up on Long Island in New York where she loved exploring tidal marshes, swimming and running. She received a B.A. in German studies from Williams College, an M.S. in organization and management from Antioch New England Graduate School and an M.A. in teaching from Converse College.

Her varied jobs have included women’s program director at LEAD USA, vocational education trainer for the NYS Department of Labor, staff development coordinator for the NYS Department of Education and a fourth grade teacher at the JFK School in Berlin, Germany.

Walter moved to Polk County to enjoy her parents’ company and enlist their assistance in raising her daughter. When she is not teaching, she enjoys reading and working in her garden.

Walter would like to thank the community for the many ways they help the schools. She believes that Polk County students are very fortunate to live in a community that provides them with opportunities to participate in diverse activities both in and outside of school.

-Article submitted by Katie Bailey