Jessica Vanoutryve

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

A: Altoona Area High School; I was a cheerleader and involved in various clubs within the school.

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

A: Every day brings something different, and no day is boring.

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

A: Bright and open

Q: Could you describe your prior teaching (social work) experience?

A: I previously worked as a Therapeutic Support Staff and Behavioral Specialist Consultant with Blair Family Solutions, followed by a Prevention Specialist and Coalition Mobilizer with Blair Drug and Alcohol Partnerships.

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

A: I originally went to school for teaching, but loved a psychology class my freshman year titled Adolescent Development. I liked learning about the development and growth of the brain and how one’s environment and genetics impact their life and decisions. From that, I knew I wanted to work in a way that I could help children/adolescents and make an impact in their lives.

Q: What brought you to Altoona to teach? 

A: I grew up in Altoona and attended school in the AASD from first to twelfth grade. It was a huge part of my life growing up and I like the idea of giving back to the community I was raised in

Q: What inspired you to become a teacher?

A: I was inspired to become a school social worker by the ethics and values connected to the profession: 1. Help people in need and address social problems. 2. Challenge social injustice. 3. Respect the inherent dignity and worth of the person. 4. Recognize the central importance of human relationships. 5. Behave in a trustworthy manner.

Q: Why did you choose to teach high school?

A: I chose to work with high school students because I wanted to work with a different population and help students who are becoming more independent as they prepare to become adults.

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

A: I would incorporate work with animals/collaborations with shelters and rescues.

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

A:  If I was a teacher, I would teach math because it’s fun to solve equations, and it’s a constant subject with little variability. 

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

A: Granola bars

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: Little Tokyo: The Monster Roll and Crab Rangoons

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

A: Patty Sauka