Maria Tyger

Q: Where did you go to high school and could you describe your high school experience?

A: I went to a very small high school in Jeannette, PA. So coming to a school that’s this big, it was a little startling. My old school was only two long hallways, and there were only 127 kids in my graduating class. 

Q: How have the first few weeks of school gone for you?

A: Beautifully, I love the kids; the staff is so supportive and engaging. I’ve been giving good help in the classroom. My students are awesome. I can’t be in a happier place right now. 

Q: If you could describe your new classroom in one word what would it be?

A: Fun.

Q: Could you describe your prior teaching experience?

A: I was a sub at Kiski Area. When I started, I was initially certified in English. Then I started working with special education kids at Kiski. From there I got my special education certificate along with my master’s degree. I worked for a year and a half at the sunrise school in Monroeville, and that woke up my love for autistic kids too. I was afraid that would be a difficulty for me, but it wasn’t; I just fell in love right away

Q: What got you interested in the subject you teach and what was your favorite growing up?

A: Reading, literature, anything I could get my hands on I read.  

Q: What brought you to Altoona to teach? 

A: My job; I was fortunate enough to get an interview and things went well and they hired me. It’s a definite blessing 

Q: What inspired you to become a teacher?

A: My love for literature led to wanting to share with kids, and my love for helping people learn led me to special education. 

Q: Why did you choose to teach high school?

A: Kindergartners can’t tell you when they’re going to throw up. 

Q: What would be a suggestion you have to make AAHS better?

A: None. You have cool principals, cool vice principals and cool kids. Everyone here has been so nice and supportive.

Q: If you could teach another subject what would it be and why?

A: I would stick with literature or physics because I like how that works. 

Q: What is your go to snack or lunch item to bring with you to school?

A: Anything from Sheetz.

Q: If you could choose one fast food restaurant to be in the school cafeteria what would it be and what would you order there?

A: Chick Fil A.

Q: Who has been the most help to you as you have started this new job?

A: My mentor, Mr. Keith, Karen Oswald, Sam Aboud and Mr. Neely.