In the midst of beloved science teacher Mr. Kailk May leaving, a new teacher has appeared. Miss Vera Weis is the new physical science and forensics teacher at HHS, and this is her second year of teaching overall.
Before coming to Missouri, Weis taught in Iowa for her first year. Although she’s new to HHS, she’s no stranger to teaching science.
“I taught physical science there, but I also taught biology,” Weis said. “I’m actually certified to teach all the sciences, and I was able to transfer it here.”
This year is also her first time teaching Forensics – something she’s already found exciting.
“We just finished up our first unit on processing a crime scene and how to actually learn how to process a crime scene,” Weis said. “Their project for their assessment was to record a how-to video and how to process one.”
Weis’ previous job was at one of the largest high schools in Iowa – a big shift from her new environment.
“There were about 2,000 kids that went there,” Weis said. “For Iowa, that’s pretty big – maybe not for St. Louis. It’s a super big change.”
Weis says adjusting to HHS has been smooth so far.
“The kids are wonderful here,” Weis said. “I think that I’ve had really good conversations and really good connections with students already.”
Students in her classes are already enjoying her teaching style. Freshman Kristian Taylor, who takes Physical Science with Weis, shared her thoughts on her class.
“Right now, we’re designing stuff to protect eggs,” Taylor said. “I do like her teaching style. I think her class is fairly easy compared to my other classes, and she explains things in deeper depth.
Senior Donubari Delolo is in Weis’ forensics class. Delolo appreciates the hands-on approach and interactive style.
“A lot of it is independent work,” Delolo said. “I’m not sure how I feel yet, but I like how we take notes— it’s tedious, but the interactive slides help me remember. I’d say her class is fun, because she’s a quirky person, and she walks around and talks to us, which keeps us attentive.
When she’s not grading labs or planning lessons, Weis enjoys unwinding with some video games.
“I love Crash Bandicoot, Baldur’s Gate, GTA, and Animal Crossing – it’s my favorite thing to do,” Weis said.
Miss Weis may be new to HHS, but it’s clear she’s already made a great impression. With her passion for science and her approachable personality, she’s quickly becoming a teacher students enjoy learning from.
