Bartlesville High School teacher Tonya Knollmeyer started her career as an educator in 2008 in the state of Louisiana thanks to the encouragement of friends and family.

“My daughters and their principal encouraged me to become a teacher,” said Knollmeyer.

That decision would eventually lead her to Bartlesville, Oklahoma where she helps students preparing for that transition from high school to college.

“I am the science department chair and work with students from all disciplines and activities. AP classes, tests, and CLEP testing are my responsibilities. I also work with the middle school science departments,” said Knollmeyer.

Finding joy in her profession is easy and watching the students enter the next chapter of their lives brings happiness to Mrs. Knollmeyer.

“Being with the students and easing their transition to college is the most rewarding part of teaching. Making the difficult-easy,” she said.

Not originally from Oklahoma, Knollmeyer attending high school in Missouri at Afton High School before attending college at Missouri S&T where she received a bachelor’s degree for Mechanical Engineering. Today, Bartlesville is home.

“Bartlesville is special. It is very academic with many AP classes but also technical with STEM options. Something for everyone,” Knollmeyer said. When the opportunity presents itself, Mrs. Knollmeyer enjoys spending time with her family, her Golden Doodle, Bonnie, and reading a good book.