Owasso Teacher of the Month
Christy Wendel
By Trina Walker
Three classroom goals guide Christy Wendel as a teacher. Her students will know they are important and valued as individuals. They will believe in their ability to succeed in math. Finally, they will leave her classroom with stronger problem-solving skills to apply in and beyond academics.
Wendel applies these goals to her students at the Owasso 6th Grade Center where she is the Math Department Lead, Instructional Technology Site Lead, and classroom teacher. She has been teaching for seventeen years.
She enjoys seeing her students excel in her classroom and in their athletic endeavors.
“It’s such a joy to see their hard work and love for the game come to life. Honestly, I often get teary-eyed watching them take the field because I’m so proud of them,” she says. “I really appreciate how our coaches and teachers are united in a shared mission to help our students grow into the best versions of themselves, both as athletes and as individuals.”
Winning is exciting, but showing respect is the best way to represent a school.
“We frequently discuss what it means to be a ‘Respectful Ram,’ emphasizing that students should show kindness, sportsmanship and integrity. When our athletes show respect on the field and off, they are a positive example of what it truly means to be a RAM!” she exclaims.
Wendel’s students taught her to take a moment to laugh.
“Sharing moments of joy and lightheartedness helps us connect making learning more enjoyable. It’s a reminder that even while tackling tough concepts, it is important to create space for fun and connection,” said Wendel.
She was a Mathematics Oklahoma finalist for the 2024 Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching and has been the Owasso 6th Grade Center Teacher of the Year twice. Wendel also belongs to the 2019 Cohort for Teacher Innovator Institute with the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum.
Wendel and her husband Mark have two sons, Joshua and Charlie, and their daughter-in-law, Allie. Now in college, her sons played soccer and were proud Owasso Rams growing up. She is an active member of her church and enjoys serving the community through various outreach programs.
