New Teachers

Madison Hecker

College: Sheridan College (NWCCD)

What and where do you teach and/or coach?

I am a special education paraprofessional at Lovell Elementary School.

What is your background? Where are you from? What is your professional experience?

I graduated high school from Lovell High School in 2020 and graduated from Sheridan College with my A.A. in psychology in 2021. I have relevant experience working in non-profit, as a caregiver and in childcare. 

Tell us about your family.

I come from a large and close-knit family. My parents have always been such big supporters of mine, and I have two siblings that I have enjoyed watching grow into the wonderful young adults they are. Our extended family includes our nieces and nephews who we love spending time with. My husband, Quinton Hecker, and I live here in Lovell with our three fur babies, which include our dog, River, and our cats, Doja and Weezer.

Why did you get into education as a profession, and what do you like the most about teaching?

This is my first position as a paraprofessional. I got into education because I have a deep passion for helping kids learn and grow. I enjoy seeing the growth and progress of my students and knowing that I have played a part in inspiring and guiding them in their learning journey.

What is your teaching philosophy? How do you get the most out of students and inspire them to learn?

Each student is unique and deserves a learning environment that fits them so that they can reach their full potential. I make sure my students know that I care, and I am here to support them and make sure that they have what they need to succeed.

What are you most looking forward to this school year?

Building meaningful connections with my students and coworkers. 

Wyatt Horrocks

College: Northwest College and University of Wyoming

What and where do you teach and/or coach?

I am a special education paraprofessional at the Rocky Mountain Elementary School in Cowley.

What is your background? Where are you from? What is your professional experience?

I graduated from Rocky Mountain High School in 2018. Afterwards, I attended Northwest College in Powell and transferred to the University of Wyoming, where I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in biology. I was hired as an aide last year for RMES in January, and that was my first job as a teacher.

Tell us about your family.

I have several family members that live in the area. I even get to work with my aunt Dorine Strom and cousin Soren Strom.

Why did you get into education as a profession, and what do you like the most about teaching?

My teachers had a big impact on my life, and I want to be able to enhance the students’ lives the way my teachers did for me. I enjoy teaching because of the laughs I have with the kids and being able to see the improvements they make throughout the year.

What is your teaching philosophy? How do you get the most out of students and inspire them to learn?

My teaching philosophy is to build a solid relationship with the students so that they trust me and are willing to work because they want to, not because they were told to.

What are you most looking forward to this school year?

I am most looking forward to enjoying time with students and helping them develop throughout the year through their experiences at school.