Dunlap High School has teachers who go beyond the classroom to make a lasting impact. Mrs. Segler is one of those teachers. Throughout her over twenty years of teaching, she’s worked with kids of all ages. But regardless of whether she’s teaching at high school, middle school, or elementary school, she brings her love for English, teaching, and a passion for connecting with students. Between teaching multiple classes at DHS and coaching TWO separate activities for DMS and DMVS, she stays busy—but always makes time to create a welcoming environment in her classroom every single day!
This year, Mrs. Segler teaches Language and Literature 1, Speech, and Practical Reading and Writing II. During her time at DMS, she taught English at the 7th-grade level. If it wasn’t already clear, she loves English. When asked why, she said she loves the subject because of her passion for grammar. She enjoys the structure and rules of grammar; to her, it’s almost like solving a math equation, except with words.
Not only has she taught at DHS and DMS, but also at Banner Elementary School. It’s her 23rd year teaching! Her journey to becoming a teacher started early. “My first-grade teacher, Mrs. VanAcker, inspired me a lot,” she shared. That inspiration eventually led her to a career where she now strives to inspire her own students.
When asked about her teaching style, she emphasized that she tries to make her classroom experience as relaxed and welcoming as possible for all of her students. She says that she strives to “make sure kids have a safe and comfortable place to be,” especially in today’s social media-driven world. Of course, there are parts of the job she could do without: “Grading,” she admitted, “and I really hate making seating charts.”
In addition to teaching, Mrs. Segler is involved in coaching middle school speech and chess. Although she doesn’t really know how to play chess, she’s there to motivate the kids. “I like bringing attention to students in non-athletic activities and making them feel welcomed,” she said. Coaching middle schoolers also helps her connect with future high schoolers. “When they get here as freshmen, at least they’ll know one teacher,” she added.
When she’s not teaching or coaching, Mrs. Segler is often at a concert. “I’ve been to 168 concerts,” she said, proudly listing Green Day and Metallica as some of her favorites. She plans to see Tyler Childers, Zach Bryan, and John Mayer soon. Seeing Tom Petty was on her bucket list, and she hopes to catch Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars, and Harry Styles in the future. She considers herself a Swiftie and is a big fan of Kendrick Lamar, especially his new album GNX, in which her favorite song is “Squabble Up.” She loves K-Dot’s music so much that she’s been rewatching his performance at this year’s Super Bowl halftime show every single day!
For Mrs. Segler, the heart of her work is about more than just academics. Whether she’s in the classroom or coaching, her goal remains the same. “I want kids to feel safe and know they belong.” Her dedication, sense of humor, and passion for teaching leave a lasting impression on everyone she meets.3
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