Educators are perhaps the greatest population of unsung heroes in Berrien and Cass County. This school year, Leader Publications will publish a weekly spotlight featuring teachers throughout the district, giving the community a chance to get to know the hard-working individuals shaping their children’s lives. Throughout the next school year, their answers will be published in the newspaper that serves each school district.

Name: Emily Frontczak

School: Dowagiac Middle School

Grade(s)/subject(s) taught: Sixth and seventh grade physical education, seventh grade healthy living

Where did you attend college? Western Michigan University

How many years have you been teaching? How many years have you been with your current school? I am in my 11th year of teaching. This is my first year at Dowagiac.

Why did you decide to become a teacher? I knew I wanted to be a teacher when I was in high school. I used to teach vacation bible school at my church, volunteer in kindergarten classrooms and afterschool programs.

Outside of school, what do you enjoy doing for fun? I enjoy being active with my family.

What is one thing your students may not know about you? I love music!

When you were a student in the grade you teach, what were your favorite hobbies? [I used] to run and play trombone.

How would your co-workers describe your teaching style and personality? They would probably say I am nice and easy going.

What is your best advice to parents to help their child continue growing academically? Be involved, ask them how their day was, do they have homework? Contact teachers just to reach out and let them know you are working with them.