Michelle McKenzie has taught science at Altus a quarter of a century.

“I taught seventh-grade science and pre-AP science for 17 years at Altus Junior High,” McKenzie says. “I then moved to Altus High School and I have taught environmental science, AP environmental science, biology and physical science. I also teach two classes of robotics and am the robotics club sponsor.”

McKenzie was motivated to pursue a career in education by teachers and coaches who inspired her when she was younger – she credits Rhonda Kauk, Kelly Jo Oakley, Jean Ballard and Rex Ackerson.

“My bachelor’s degree is from the [University of Oklahoma] College of Architecture and I worked in the historic preservation field for several years before I went back to school and got my master’s in teaching,” McKenzie says. “A big part of finally becoming a teacher was being on the same schedule as my children and I just happen to love science.”

McKenzie enjoys her free time, which she elects to spend with her husband and two daughters. She also enjoys gardening and yard sales, “to look for unusual items to put in my classroom or home.”

McKenzie says teaching has taught her patience.

“I used to be in such a hurry and on a tight schedule with all the material to get through and all the duties, requirements and professional development that are piled on teachers,” McKenzie says. “Now, I realize it is better to slow down and make sure the students grasp the concept before moving on to the next topic.”