SLOHS Geometry teacher Roxanne Politte is one of the most passionate teachers here at SLOHS. Photo courtesy of freshman Cadence Flickinger.
With a new school year at San Luis Obispo comes lots of new teachers, including geometry teacher Roxanne Politte. Expressions caught up with Politte and heard a lot about her fascination with geometry.
Expressions: Is there any particular reason you wanted to teach here at SLOHS?
SLOHS Geometry teacher Roxanne Politte: After going to Cal Poly and then becoming a teacher in the area, I have always heard so many great things about the staff and students at SLOHS – from academic accomplishments to the campus camaraderie. I remember having friends at Cal Poly that were SLOHS graduates and they felt so proud to be from this community. From an educator perspective, I see and feel the dedication around campus. As I walk through the math building, every teacher has a unique way of teaching and it is truly inspiring.
Expressions: When did you know you wanted to teach geometry? Was it when you were in the class yourself?
Politte: I have always loved math! I remember wanting to get ahead in high school, and I was ‘lucky’ because I believe I had a quick learning curve. This changed in college, where the theoretical math classes were so tricky. I did not enjoy proofs in college – it was one of the first times I had to ask for help and go to office hours. With the help of my professors, I learned to love math. My favorite math class in college was called “Number Theory” [and] geometry is my favorite math subject. I love how we get to apply many of the skills in our ‘toolbox’ from Algebra I/Pre-Algebra, while also discovering the world of trigonometry. I also love how we get to explore such ‘simple’ ideas/shapes like the right triangle.
Expressions: What’s the biggest difference between teaching here vs where you used to teach?
Politte: I feel very grateful for my past teaching experiences – I miss my past students so much. The students at SLOHS are simply amazing, and I find myself wanting to challenge them more and more everyday. I feel so grateful to teach the students that are in my classes.
Expressions: Are there any problems you’ve noticed in your short time here?
Politte: I have not noticed any problems – I am a bit more introverted and tend to stick to myself, mostly because I am adjusting to the new schedule and setting. I am also adjusting from a block-schedule to our current bell schedule, but overall the staff and students here have been so helpful and kind.
Expressions: Would you ever teach another subject? If so, which one?
Politte: I am really, really passionate about building strength. After my son was born, I started taking CrossFit more seriously – our bodies are so cool – this is my current favorite hobby. Therefore, I would love to teach a weight-lifting or strength-training type class, especially for girls!
Politte is an incredibly nice and wonderful teacher. SLOHS is glad to have her!
