Ms.Elfering joins the physical education department

Ms. Heather Elfering is a new teacher this year at OHS in the Physical Education department. Along with teaching at OHS, she also teaches at the Owatonna Middle School, Lincoln and Mckinley. She attended Mayville State University located in North Dakota. This year she will be teaching Developmental Adapted Physical Education (DAPE). 

Elferling was inspired to become a teacher because she enjoys working with students and watching them grow. She said, “I really like the idea of helping students and physical education was my favorite subject.” At OHS, Ms. Elfering will have the opportunity to be a role model in her students life and create a positive atmosphere.              

Growing up in Chisago Lakes, Minn., Ms.Elfering did not see her future taking place in Owatonna. She student taught in the cities at larger schools and it wasn’t until she taught in North Dakota that she realized she liked working in smaller schools. She said, “In North Dakota the schools are really small, more rural, which I liked better than city schools.” Ms.Elfering will be a good contribution to the Owatonna School District as she brings experience from a variety of schools. 

Ms. Elfering is looking forward to meeting and working with new students, her favorite aspect of teaching is participating in the growth of her students. She said, “I like to help them and watch them succeed.” Her eagerness to support her students in all that they do shows her dedication to being a role model for her students. Colleague Ms. Michaela Raney said, “She brings a positive, adaptable and calming energy to our PE department.” She is a strong advocate for her students’ needs allowing for an overall supportive environment.

In addition to teaching, Ms. Elfering has hobbies outside of the classroom. She said, “I like to walk my dog, play golf as well as basketball and cook.” Elfering is looking forward to developing relationships with her students doing the things she loves most, one of which is teaching. Students can find Ms.Elfering in the PE office between the locker rooms.