Teacher Talk: Anya Johnson

by Natalie Kirton

New teacher Anya Johnson first appeared shy and reserved at the beginning of the school year. As the days passed, she was quick to show students that she was a quirky, but serious, teacher. 

Johnson attended North Iowa High School in Buffalo Center, Iowa. She participated in yearbook, fall play, spring musical, speech, band, choir, cheerleading, FFA, student council, and National Honor Society outside of school hours.

Johnson discovered her dream to become a teacher while in high school. “I was greatly influenced by the teachers that really cared about students and took time to help in their free time,” said Johnson. She hopes that she is able to help her students in the same way. 

In the beginning of her education, Johnson considered becoming a band teacher, having played flute, piccolo and valve trombone during high school. She soon realized her love of literature and performance would be a good reason to pursue a career as an English teacher instead. 

After graduating high school, Johnson attended Luther College in Decorah, Iowa. While she was there, she not only studied English and secondary education, but also participated in choir and Council for Exceptional Children, an organization where Luther students spend time doing activities with special needs children.

After graduating from Luther, Montezuma schools contacted Johnson about applying for the open position in the English department . “I loved the environment around the school and was excited by the opportunity to teach here. I come from a small town, so I was looking forward to teaching in a small school,” said Johnson. She has enjoyed her time at Montezuma, because the community and staff are incredibly helpful and welcoming. Her first year as a teacher has been a great learning experience and an adjustment to the new environment.

In her free time, Johnson’s favorite things are going for walks, reading and spending time with her family; especially nephews and niece. Her favorite book series is the “Hunger Games” trilogy by Suzanne Collins, and her favorite movie is “Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers.”