9-25-2017 11:55pm

Meet Nikki Gunning, New Health and Phys Ed Teacher at Saline High School

The first full month of school is nearly in the books. The Saline Post continues its series introducing you to the new teachers in the Saline Area Schools district.

Today, we meet Nikki Gunning.

Name: Nikki Gunning

What you teach: Physical Education & Health

Where you teach: Salne High School

Hometown: Howell

From what university did you graduate? The University of Findlay

Describe your previous teaching or career experience: For the last 2 years I was the Women's Basketball Graduate Assistant Coach at The University of Findlay. This will be my first year teaching and I can't think of a better place to be!

Why did you decide on teaching as a profession? I chose to purse teaching as my career because I am passionate about teaching and I love being around kids. They are our future and I love the fact that I can make a difference in our future by impacting the students. It is the only profession I can think of where every day you are provided the opportunity to shape and mold the minds of today’s youth.

Why did you choose your specific area/subject? The disciplines you learn with physical education and health teaches our students positive ways to conduct themselves throughout their entire lives. It is my passion to educate students not only in the classroom but to see them apply these disciplines in their daily lives. To learn to work with people from all different backgrounds and be a part of a team just as they will do in the workplace someday. To share with students what a healthy lifestyle can do for them and where it can take them.

Who was your favorite or most influential teacher? Why? My most influential teacher was Mr. Adam, who was my elementary PE teacher. He was very passionate about his job and cared about his students beyond the classroom. He has helped make me into the teacher I am today.

Tell us something about you that might surprise your students? My travel softball team won the NSA World Series when I was 16 years old.

How do you like to spend your time away from class? Away from class I like to spend my time on the lake surrounded by good friends and family!

What’s your impression of Saline Area Schools since accepting the position? I am very grateful for this opportunity to teach at Saline High School. I can't think of a better district to be teaching at, the staff has been extremely helpful and welcoming... I am very excited for the year to start! #GoHornets