Science Teacher Named Parkway West High's Teacher of the Year

Colleen O'Toole has been chosen as Parkway West High School's Teacher of the Year. O'Toole, a 10-year veteran of West High, teaches general science, chemistry, physics and astronomy. 

"There are so many fantastic teachers here. Receiving this honor makes me want to continue to push to be better. I hope to continue to grow as a teacher," O'Toole said. 

While in college, O'Toole spent time in Costa Rica interning in a food lab and learning Spanish. After graduating with a degree in food science, O'Toole worked for a food company in product development before turning to teaching. 

"Both of my parents were teachers. I didn't really plan to teach," she said. "But after growing up a bit, I realized teaching science was what I wanted to do. I've always loved science. I try to make science relevant to what's going on in the world and in students' life."

 The walls of her classroom are covered with posters, including one of O'Toole dressed as a superhero. Shelves are filled with books, music, a blue feather boa, and a colorful wig. The room is a testament to her personality and apparent sense of humor.

"You can't take yourself too seriously, and you have to be able to laugh," O'Toole said. "Teaching is largely about our relationship with students, so I make sure my door is always open to any student. Everyone needs a place. And that's a large part of my teaching philosophy."

O'Toole is an active sponsor of a number of student groups including the drug-free school program; STARS an antidrug program geared toward freshman; and Gay-Straight Alliance. She is also assists other teachers in integrating technology to stregthen curriculum and academic achievement as a peer teacher leader.