Walking into room 47, the first thing you see is a cheesy joke, an inspirational quote or a cute science meme. This is because there is a new chemistry teacher at WS: Kimberly Nelson, who loves to let her personality shine.

Nelson, just came from Robinson and is trying to adjust to a new school and a whole new group of students. Chemistry can be a difficult class, especially when you have so many other classes, with so much homework. That is why Kimberly Nelson does her best to show her personality, and make her students feel welcome.

“I try and be dynamic and make it as fun as possible because chemistry can be really intimidating for a lot of students,” said Nelson. ”Anything I can do to make the class seem more approachable and make it fun so that students aren’t constantly worrying about how difficult it is.”

This is an attitude that many students find their teachers don’t possess, and their appreciation for her understanding nature is noted. Not only does Nelson not believe in too much homework, but also in turning in good work, no matter what.

“I want my students to know that I would much rather they take a little bit of extra time to turn in work that they are proud of and that really showcases what they know,” said nelson. “Opposed to turning in something on an arbitrary deadline.”

This is just one reason why many of her students love her class, and shows the power that an understanding teacher has in the school. Even only being here for a few months, Nelson has made a good impression on so many of her students.

“She is very reasonable; she will let you do corrections on tests, and she has quotes around the room. It creates a nice positive atmosphere, said sophomore Angie Borkowski.

Nelson believes in creating relationships with students and showing that that she cares, not only about their grades, but about who they are. She takes the time in class to ask how the student’s day was, help them with their work, and make a few chemistry jokes.

“I want my students to know that I actually care about them as people not just as chemistry students.  Once there is that mutual respect, and they know their teacher really cares about them, they are willing to work harder and they are more motivated, and it leads to a much more fun classroom dynamic, said Nelson.

Many of her students feel this dynamic in their classes, because of just who Nelson is, and the fun they have in the class. The once intimidating chemistry class, to some, is now a place where they don’t have to stress about the little things, like perfect grades, too much homework or not getting help from their teacher.

“She is really helpful and flexible, if you had practice and you couldn’t do a project or study for a quiz, she understands because you have so many activities. She really lets us work at our own pace, and she doesn’t just give you busy work, said sophomore Simar Dhillon.

This less stressful class was Nelson’s goal, and she loves knowing that her students feel the same way she does.

I want them to know that I’m going to hold them to high expectations but I’m going to help them get there along the way, said Nelson.