In the busy world of high school, it is easy for dedicated teachers to blend into the background, their hard work and passion often overlooked. One teacher who deserves more recognition is Ms. Cencula, a lively and enthusiastic person in her students’ lives.
When she is not in the classroom, Cencula maintains a laid back approach to life, enjoying time with family and friends. “I just like to hang out with friends and find local activities that interest me,” she said, highlighting how she balances her professional life and personal interests. Whether it is texting a friend to check out a new exhibit at a museum or exploring unfamiliar local spots, her adventurous spirit shines through.
While many of us have our careers plotted out, Cencula took a different path to becoming a teacher. Originally wanting to be a veterinarian, she found herself inspired by great teachers in her high school. “I always wanted to be a vet, but as my senior year approached, I decided I wanted to be a teacher,” she confessed. This decision reveals her desire to bring the same joy and excitement for learning to her students that she once experienced. “I saw the joy they got out of talking about interests of theirs and helping other people get that interest and just helping students in general,” she explained.
It is clear that teaching is where her heart is. “I can’t picture myself doing anything else,” she said, with a bright smile displaying just how much she loves her job. However, engaging with students in the classroom isn’t always easy. She expressed that it can sometimes be frustrating when students don’t interact in class. “When students don’t talk, it makes class ten times more boring,” she admitted. “I want you guys to enjoy this class as much as I did in high school.”
Cencula has a vibrant personality that she describes as “loud and enthusiastic.” One of her students, Zaniah Bussy puts it perfectly, “She’s definitely a really personable person, so I feel like she really gets to know her students.” This connection creates a comfortable classroom environment, which is essential for effective learning. Zaniah continues, “She really gets to know her students and takes the time to figure out what they have going on outside of school.” This dedication to understanding her students goes above and beyond what educators need to do.
Despite her best efforts, Cencula seems to go unnoticed. She is in the agriculture department and many students tend to not take classes related to that field. “I try to make myself more well known but it’s kind of hard um I don’t mind that kids don’t know me but I try to introduce myself when I can. I just feel like people don’t get enough full enjoyment out of the class if they’re not interacting fully,” she reflected. It is unfortunate that many students miss out on her engaging approach simply because they don’t know her or her classes well enough.
In a world where subjects such as agriculture tend to be overlooked, it is important to acknowledge educators like Cencula, who represent what being a teacher really is. Teachers that spark interest, nurture relationships, and create a love for learning. Her passion and dedication to education indicates that she is an embodiment of inspiration, that deserves greater recognition within Tuscarora High School.
