Savannah Wheeler | 7th Grade Health/High School Physical Education Teacher 

MTSU women’s basketball standout Savannah Wheeler capped her student-athlete career as an All-American, CUSA Champion, and Michael L. Slive CUSA Athlete of the Year. A champion and record-breaker on the court, Wheeler is now channeling that same drive into education, taking on new challenges as a 7th Grade Health and High School Physical Education teacher.

What is the best thing about being a teacher?
The best part of being a teacher is building relationships with both colleagues and students. These special connections allow us to learn from one another, foster trust, boost confidence, and help me better understand how my students learn. Another reason I love teaching is witnessing a student’s face light up when they achieve something meaningful. While it’s important to support students academically, making a lasting impact on their lives is even more valuable. Every career comes with its challenges, and teaching is no exception. It requires patience and adaptability, which helps me grow as a person and enables others to grow as well.
 
What inspired you to become a teacher?
I decided to become a teacher for this reason. The first reason is the desire to make an impact. Through playing basketball, several coaches have made an impact on my life that has shaped me into the person I am today. Playing basketball allowed me to meet and build special relationships that I will always be grateful for. I have faced numerous challenges throughout my basketball career, and one thing I've learned in life is to never give up and to keep going. Despite the challenges I faced, I knew that those people believed in me, and I want to instill that same confidence in my students, inspiring them to reach their potential.
 
What was your favorite subject in school?
My favorite subject in school was math. I have had great math teachers throughout Middle School and High School who made learning fun and included everyone throughout group activities that supported an inclusive environment. Using real-world connections based on students’ interests allowed me to solve problems that I might face outside of the classroom, such as budgeting and managing money.

What makes a “good” day at school?
I believe a “good” day at school starts with a positive mindset—not only expecting a successful lesson, but also focusing on helping and caring for all students. Greeting students and coworkers each day creates instant connections and demonstrates strong social skills. Incorporating interactive lessons with hands-on activities, group discussions, or creative projects fosters a supportive and inclusive environment, encouraging students to open up to one another. Finally, expressing gratitude for what went well can elevate the experience and provide a foundation for continual growth.
 
How do you remember all your students’ names?
Every day, I make an effort to get to know each student, which helps encourage open communication.

If you could take your students anywhere on a field trip, where would you take them?
I would take them to a thrilling college basketball game, where they could experience the electrifying atmosphere and cheer on their favorite team. Many kids love sports, and bringing them to a game lets them experience the thrill, which some may not have had the chance to do before.
  
What advice can you share for future teachers?
My advice to future teachers would be to plan and visualize each lesson, get to know your students early by understanding their likes and dislikes, remain flexible, establish clear boundaries for effective classroom management, focus on progress rather than perfection, and, most importantly, remember why you’re teaching. Having that sense of purpose will carry you throughout the tough days. Having a passion for teaching will create a contagious energy that students will feed off. Always remember that each student is unique and different in their own significant way. What kind of impact are you going to make on their lives?