Classroom profile: Ms. Tellez

Photos by Cadence Kang

I truly believe a classroom tells you a lot about what kind of teacher you're getting. So whenever I walk into a new class for the first time, I am quick to judge. However, when I walked into Ms. Tellez’s classroom, I loved it.

If you don’t already know her, Ms. Tellez is a History teacher and has been for 5 years. This year, she has taken on 8th-grade U.S History as well as AP World History. Whether you know her or not, she is sure to offer a helping hand. As one of her many students, I know that Ms. Tellez, both inside and out of her classroom, is a kind and generous human. Not only can you see her caring presence through her teaching, but you can also see it through her class.

Located next to the graphic arts building, Ms. Tellez’s bungalow is tucked away. Though this seemingly secret class seems intimidating, as soon as you walk through the doors, a colorful array of posters and trinkets surprises you.

The classroom itself is a medium-sized open classroom. With huge windows on the side of the room, a lot of natural sunlight shines through. But her class infrastructure is not what makes her classroom so unique, it's all the decoration, like her poster walls. Ranging from Hamilton lyrics to quotes from brilliant historical figures, she is sure to include remarkable things.

Along with her poster walls, you can see beautifully painted portraits on display in the back. The wall is covered in people like Ceaser Chavez, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and Suni Lee. These gorgeous posters are actually from an artist located in Minniappleous. Adam Johnson, also known as Mr. Johnson paints, makes posters, and other decor of historical figures. These colorful posters add a pop of color and personality to the room.

Moving away from the back is one of my favorite parts of her class. Next to her desk, she has Funko Pops and figurines of influential people. She has recently taken on crochet, so little crocheted animals can also be found there. This little nook for Pez dispensers and Bobble heads of politicians adds a nice, friendly touch to her room.

Last, but certainly not least, is Ms. Tellez’s puzzle corner. All of her students know that Ms. Tellez always has a puzzle going on in the back. Recently, they have just finished a 1000-piece puzzle in children's storybooks.

Even though she has only been in this classroom for 5 years, Ms. Tellez fills her room with love and joy. Though just 4 walls seem like such a limited space, she makes the most of it by filling every wall and every corner with homey and cute decorations. So the next time you walk into a new classroom, think about how the space might reflect what kind of teacher you’re getting.