Steve Shanks has been an educator for over thirty years. In his life, he has been given numerous pieces of advice covering a lot of topics. But as he looks back, he has one bit of advice that still sticks with him.
“My grandfather raised me,” Shanks said. “He told me one time I would experience problems in life. He also said I could work my way out of any of those problems. And to date, he has been correct.”
Shanks is the Performing Arts Director at Stillwater High School. He teaches Technical Theater to sophomores, juniors, and seniors. He decided to enter the education field because he wants to make an impact on the work.
“I feel if I can reason with people, and people can reason with me, then together we can make a difference and influence others,” he said. “Educators are in the perfect position to try and accomplish this. This is the main reason I became a teacher.”
Steve also enjoys seeing his students be successful in whatever is in front of them.
“When our class works together to accomplish a goal, and I see their eyes and their faces, I know they have to be proud of their accomplishments. Their joy is what I enjoy,” he said proudly.
When he is not teaching, Shanks enjoys spending time with his wife Tonja, who also works at the school.
“I love spending time with my wife,” he said. “We are working on a cookbook together. I know it sounds simple, but I enjoy her company.”
As he reflected back on his career so far, Shanks had a humorous take on it all.
“I have served as a teacher and as an administrator in public education for 35 years,” he said. “Most of the students I have met have been really good to work with. It’s the adults that are crazy.”
