After only being at Oakdale for a couple of months, Madison Bigelow has really made an impact on the students in her class and Oakdale High School. Freshman Gabriella Bizimana, describes Ms.Bigelow as a really “talented, fun, and enthusiastic” teacher! With a smile on her face every day, Ms.Bigelow has a deep passion for teaching. 

“I really can’t imagine doing anything else.” Ms Bigelow explained. 

Even though she is still adapting to Oakdale’s environment, she is very pleased with how the students and staff have been welcoming her. 

Coming from a middle school for the past 13 years, the transition  to teaching high school English has been a big change. Ms.Bigelow enjoys reading and writing. Her favorite genre is historical fiction as she likes reading about cultures and time periods outside of her own.

Apart from English, Ms.Bigelow has many other interests as well, including dance. Before Bigelow taught at Oakdale, she had been a cheer coach at Middletown High School. She has been leading the Knights cheerleading team to many victorious seasons. Additionally, she has also coached the Oakdale team for a little while. Ms.Bigelow really grew to like Oakdale and was really excited to hear that there was an opening in the English department. 

“I thought about teaching high school for some time. The opportunity arose, and I knew it was a signal to transition,” said Ms.Bigelow.

“I like how she’s always enthusiastic about teaching every single day, and she always has a smile on her face.” Bizimana expresses her opinion on Ms.Bigelow’s class.

“Her teaching style is different from other teachers, and for me personally, it works a little better, also she’s younger, so she understands a little better.” Bizimana continues.

The students in her class definitely think she’s a great inclusion to the Oakdale community and are glad to have her.

“I enjoy running into previous students and hearing about their accomplishments. I recently received a social media message from a previous student who mentioned that I taught her to believe in herself and follow her passions, [which she did].” Ms.Bigelow states,exprssing she gest a lot out of teaching as it also teaches her too. 

“As an English teacher, the needed time to read the variety of texts and novels can be extensive. It has also been a challenge to acclimate to the high school schedule [earlier start times and longer class periods].” Ms.Bigelow elaborates,

It is evident that Ms.Bigelow’s presence in the English department is not just about teaching, but about creating an impact on the students for years to come. Oakdale High School cannot wait to see Ms.Bigelow grow and inspire success every day.