On April 6, Catherine Gregory was named Allen’s 2017 “Secondary Teacher of the Year,” and listening to her speak of her students makes it obvious as to why.

Going on her 14th year of teaching, and her fourth year teaching in Allen, Gregory is passionate not only about teaching but also conversing with her students on a daily basis. While Gregory found the title unexpected, she says she plans to use it to further connect with her students in the classroom.

“I feel validated; I know I work really hard and I care about my kids, [so] I’m really glad those traits are coming out and people can see that,” Gregory said. “Teaching is a passion of mine, and I’m really glad that’s able to be seen with this award.”

Gregory’s students describe the classroom environment as comfortable for all. Gregory says she celebrated with them after receiving the award.

“They were all surprisingly excited for me, and came up to me in class saying, ‘Congratulations,’” Gregory said. “It was really sweet.”

While Gregory cracks jokes during her lessons, Gregory says she tries to do the best she can to ensure all her students are on board with the subject.

“She’s actually really interactive with people, and good at explaining things,” sophomore Harley Tee said. “When [a student] doesn’t know something, she doesn’t leave them stranded.”

Though she has taught different subjects before, Gregory said she is happy to settle on teaching just one: Geometry.

“When I first started teaching I taught Algebra I. I’ve taught it all really,” Gregory said. “[But] for a while now I’ve been teaching just Geometry, and it’s been nice. It’s really good to focus on one subject: it allows better preparation for good lessons.”

Gregory offers tutoring before or after school school every day of the week except Fridays. However, Tee says she hardly ever needs to go.

“[I’ve only gone to her tutoring] a few times because she does a good job explaining in class,” Tee said. “You’re confident in understanding the work.”

Through all the praise, however, Gregory says she tries to stay humble. She remains amazed when speaking about the award, and says how much it means to be recognized out of the many passionate teachers working in the district.

”I was shocked, I didn’t expect to win,” Gregory said. “It’s a big honor, and I’m really proud, and just surprised.”