Karissa Budny is a ninth-grade English teacher at Tyrone Area High School. She demonstrates a high level of understanding and consistently maintains a positive attitude.
Budny consistently fosters a supportive environment for her students and maintains strong relationships with each of her classes. She provides ongoing encouragement and imparts valuable lessons that extend beyond English, teaching students significant life skills and the importance of using their voices respectfully.
Freshman Ryleigh Holmes appreciates the authenticity that Budny demonstrates with her students.
“She’s real with her students and is lenient, and helps them grow as people,” said Ryleigh Holmes.
Genna Naylor, a freshman, expresses her gratitude for Budny’s understanding.
“She is very understanding and thoughtful. She also has a connection with her students that many teachers don’t have,” said Naylor.
What inspired you to go into teaching and/or choose the subject you teach?
Knowing that I could help shape students’ futures, while also having a schedule that would allow me to have flexibility with my children, is why teaching won me over.
What is your favorite thing about teaching?
The moments when I feel like I have made a forever impact on students, often beyond the English classroom, are my favorite moments of teaching.
What are some of your hobbies and interests?
Attending my girls’ sporting events seems to be my main hobby these days! Other than that, I enjoy spending time with my friends, crafting with my girls, decorating for ALL the holidays, and riding a motorcycle when the weather permits.
What is some good advice you’ve been given as a teacher?
I seem to struggle with the “don’t smile until Christmas,” but I do a good job with “leave work at work!”
What is the hardest part of teaching and why?
For an English teacher, one of the hardest parts is grading the writing in a timely fashion. From an emotional standpoint, not being able to help or give enough to students in need by far is the most difficult.
What are some of the jobs you held before getting into teaching?
I used to mow lawns, was a waitress, and worked in a daycare.
What is your best advice to students?
So much advice: Follow Jesus, pay no attention to other’s opinions of you, create your path, apologize when you are wrong…and on and on and on :0)
