“She goes a hundred percent all the time, and you can tell this school is important to her.”

• Rachael Whelchel, math teacher

Hailey Selhost, a science teacher in her fourth year at Sherrard Junior High, is this month’s Tiger Talent. Known for her dedication, humor, and personal connections, she makes every student feel seen and supported.

 

 

“She’s always there for the kids. She does everything in her power and it never shuts off,” said Kayla Ulfig, math teacher.

High schoolers often return just to see her. “She’s like their personal counselor,” said Whelchel.

Beyond relationships, Hailey leads in the classroom and with curriculum. She analyzes student data, takes on leadership roles, and gives extra time to help students succeed. “We had a student who would never come to school… she gave up her prep to work with him, got him caught up, and he ended up passing and not having to do summer school,” said Ulfig.

JH Principal Brady Stromquist nominated her for the recognition and said, “You’re not going to find a teacher in our building that is more student centered than she is.”

Her colleagues and students describe her as smart, caring, funny, patient, compassionate, and a role model. “And if you know her, you love her,” said Whelchel.

Students also shared their honest thoughts:

• “(When) you have no time to do your work. She understands that because she sometimes can’t do her work as well,” said Kenzie Gross.

• “You’ll never really see her angry… Unless you do see her without caffeine… or she has a migraine,” said Jimmy Nelson.

• “She knows how to communicate the information that she needs to tell the class very effectively and handle any situation that comes up with disruptive behavior… Role model teacher, who gives me an example for what I kind of want to be as a person,” said Henry Ahrens.

• “She’ll allow us to do it, and that’s super helpful for us. We know that we can do it. Then we have the confidence to do it,” said John Churchill.

• “She is a really nice teacher. She doesn’t give out a lot of homework. I understand her class a lot. She makes it easier to learn,” said Nate Pratt.

 

Her former principal, and current Sherrard Superintendent Dr. Carl Johnson, presented her with a golden apple with “Tiger Talent” inscribed to commemorate her dedication.

Dr. Johnson implemented the Tiger Talent award for:

“…those who model, build and encourage positive character qualities—speaking into students’ lives by word and deed that will resonate for years to come and help guide them to become the leaders and contributing community members of tomorrow.”

Her impact on students is clear: “She’s like mom, but she’s like that mom. That’s like, I know you got this and I know you’re going to make better decisions. We’re going to make it a great day,” said Whelchel.