At the Jenks at Bixby football game, Assistant Principal Eric VanZee was presented a check for Science and Math education for Jenks High School by the people of Oklahoma Oil & Natural Gas. 

This support will be benefiting Jenks STEM programs and teachers. Eric VanZee is one of the staff members benefiting from the donation. Legislators Rep. Stan May and Sen. Dave Rader were also in attendance for the presentation.

Tell us a little bit about yourself. Your hobbies, your passions.

I’ve been a professional educator for over 25 years. I have adult five children and one grandson. In addition to education, my interests include fitness, the outdoors, cooking and I have become interested in sailing most recently.

What classes do/did you teach?

During my time in the classroom, I taught a variety of social studies and leadership courses.

Where did you go to college and what led you into teaching?

I started my college studies at Gonzaga University, and got my Bachelors Degree from Eastern Washington University. I earned my Masters Degree from Northeastern University. Like many of my fellow educators, education is a calling. I initially went to school to study law but the universe kept steering me to education.

Who mentored you into the educator you are today?

My first mentors were all the great teachers I had in school. Once a teacher, I had leaders, Dr. Grissom, Dr. Butterfield and Mike Means who were all encouraging and great mentors. However, I gain most of my energy from the amazing, talented and dedicated educators I work with on a daily basis. They inspire me to get better and I want to be the leader they deserve.

What is great about your current school?

Our school is great first and foremost because of relationships. Teachers are intentional about getting to know their students and making them feel welcome and safe. When relationships are a priority, learning and teaching flourish. Our diversity is a strength; it makes us better. We have a strong sense of community and family. Those who live in our community are active in supporting our schools, through volunteering, making donations and passing bond issues which give us the opportunity to provide a world class education.

The People of Oklahoma Oil and Natural Gas are committed to supporting STEM education. Why is teaching Science and Math so important?

Science and Math are foundation of innovation. That’s what has made and continues to make our country the greatest place in the world. We are the leaders of STEM innovation. Life saving/improving/enhancing breakthroughs are based in these fields. If we are going to keep on that track, we have to support our education system that develops individuals to think/dream and risk big.

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