Teaching high school students is more than just showing up and going over a lesson that you have prepared. It is about the preparation and the willingness to help your students. Michael Porter says that you have to have the right approach in order to be a successful teacher.
“To be an effective teacher you have to connect with people and form a positive atmosphere in your classroom,” he said. “Students can see that you are dedicated to putting in the time and effort to help them achieve success. If they see me working hard, they are more willing to work hard themselves.”
Porter teaches Algebra II and Algebra III at Stillwater High School. Before teaching at Stillwater, he also taught at Oklahoma State University and Northern Oklahoma College.
Michael and his wife, Amber, have been married for 21 years and they have two kids that keep them on the move.
“Everything we do is family centered,” he said. “The Porters play lots of games, enjoy movie nights, and take down a bunch of snacks. Our family is tied together through faith and laughter.”
As a teacher, Porter has had a number of people that have had an impact on him and helped shape him into the person and educator that he is today.
“As a teacher Alan Tipps had a major impact on me, and an even larger influence as a role model,” he said. “He is always on a mission to make the world a better place. He never stops helping people. Alan puts the needs of others in front of his own needs. He truly loves it.”
Just as with any job, the environment that you are surrounded by can be vital to your success. Porter says that teaching at Stillwater High School has been a true blessing.
“Stillwater High School is an incredible place to work,” he stated. “There is an entire network of principals and teachers who support each other. It is a team effort and everyone is willing to help you succeed.”
