Ms. Yang is not only known for teaching chemistry, biology, and nutritional science, but for her well-structured class centered around consistent practice. Many students agree that Ms. Yang’s courses are rigorous, but there is a reassuring predictability in the way she presents the subject matter. Ms. Yang prides herself in that, “Students know what to expect from me. There are no surprises.”
Ms. Yang’s meticulous planning has been an important part of her since her own time as a high school student. Even before attending the University of Pennsylvania to study biochemistry, Ms. Yang already knew that she wanted to become a teacher. Her most important piece of advice to the student body stems from her own experience of fulfilling her dream childhood career: “Do something that you don’t see as work.” For Ms. Yang, each school day is exciting, and she also appreciates the unique work-life balance it provides. Ms. Yang enjoys exercise, cooking, baking, and reading over her summer break. Her favorite book thus far has been The Clan of the Cave Bear. She also tends to an abundant flower garden.
Every other year, Ms. Yang also visits her home in Taiwan to reconnect with family and enjoy her favorite Chinese food. You can see a bit of her innie foodie shine through during calorimetry and smores labs in class when students get to learn and snack at the same time. Her pride in her Asian heritage has also motivated her to step up as the advisor of the school’s Asian Culture Club this year.
Ms. Yang not only provides valuable guidance to her students and ACC members but strives to grow on a personal level. “I’m always trying to be more fair, compassionate, kind, and understanding,” she describes herself, though she admits with a smile, “I do like to boss people around.” Part of Ms. Yang’s self-improvement journey included a seven-day meditation retreat involving complete silence. “It was quite easy,” Ms. Yang comments. “We talk to ourselves in our head all the time.”
Ms. Yang’s contentment with life radiates from within. Though she is moving to Taiwan and will not be returning to Highland Park in the fall, her legacy remains. The student body will continue to pass room 232 and think of the reassuring presence that they have come to know and appreciate.