Staff members new and old came together to congratulate Ms. Ferguson for her very well deserved reward including retired science teachers Ms. Lorraine Nangle (right of Ms. Ferg) and Ms. Barbara Ziegler (left of Ms. Ferg), as well as current science teacher Mr. Kelly (left). (LRHS)

A teacher is a person who helps others acquire knowledge and values that can inspire their students for the rest of their lives. One teacher at LRHS who has left a mark on many of her students is the 2024-2025 Teacher of the Year, Ms. Brenda Ferguson.

Ms. Ferguson, who has been a vital member of the science department throughout her career at LRHS, is committed to her students. Alum Stephen Schwab praised Ms. Ferguson’s teaching style and enthusiasm in an article written for the Ledger last year, stating that her “excellent teaching methods,” which includes students discovering answers on their own with her guidance and instruction, leads her students to “learn the material in a very efficient way.”

A science department colleague, Mr. Michael Kelly, agrees that Ms. Ferguson is more than deserving of this award, stating, “Ms. Ferguson strives to get to know each of her students, from a standpoint of their learning needs, as well as them as people.” Mr. Kelly has worked along with and known Ms. Ferguson for 15 years, along with her being his mentor when he first started teaching at LRHS. He adds, “I could tell, immediately, that she was a very dedicated, [and a] very knowledgeable teacher.”

Fondly known as Ferg by students, alum Kat Geisel shared with the Ledger that she loved AP Bio “because Ferg was really fun and always helpful when I needed it,” while alum Carter Vargas stated he would “10 out 10” recommend Ms. Ferg’s class.

With constant advice being given to teachers and to students, Ms, Ferguson is easily able to approach people and be helpful. She quickly adjusts to how life and technology is changing and evolving so that she can make learning easier and even more fun for her students. It is clear through these testimonies that Ms. Ferguson is an inspiration to the LRHS community.

On top of her role in the classroom, Ms. Ferguson is the leader of the Service and Nature Clubs at LRHS, inspiring students to get out into nature and be a part of their community, with events like Relay for Life.

The Teacher of the Year award is presented to one teacher each year. Those who receive this honor are nominated by staff, students, and community members for very admirable reasons. With all the outstanding qualities being brought to the table, it is clear why Ms. Ferguson is being recognized.

Congratulations to Ms. Ferguson on being the Lakeland Regional High School Teacher of the Year!