It’s Teacher Appreciation Week at Emerson High School. One of the many teachers to be grateful for is Ms. Allie Cecil. Her vibrant personality and consideration for others has made her a favorite of many. Cecil teaches Algebra II Advanced in addition to coaching volleyball.

Having a love for teaching runs strongly in the Cecil family. 

“My mom was a teacher, and just seeing the impact she had on a bunch of kids… I just love my mom and respect my mom, and wanted to be just like her,”  said Cecil. “My brother is the head soccer coach at Frisco Memorial, so kind of just all in the family.”

Even with family influences, Cecil has her own reason for becoming a teacher. 

“I like being a teacher because of the relationships I get to build with my students and be part of their lives and watch them grow up and be successful,” said Cecil.

Like many things in life, there are downsides. Cecil shares one thing she dislikes about being a teacher. 

“Grading papers, especially in math, because you have to really look at it to make sure of any small mistake to give partial credit; So it takes forever,” said Cecil.

Despite the struggles, teaching has had a positive impact on her life. 

“It’s definitely made me a better person, because I’m around so many incredible people every single day: Students and coworkers,” said Cecil. Teaching has, “[B]rought some of the best people in my life to me, so definitely changed it for the better.”

Overall, Cecil hopes to leave a positive memory for her students.

For her students, she prioritizes, “Having no judgment, and feeling safe in my classroom and that they know that they can come in and I’m here for them,”  said Cecil. “And I’ll talk with them and cheer for them forever.”