For Sarah Andrews, teaching was never about equations and theorems—it was about people. Now in her second year at Westside High School, Andrews teaches geometry and advanced algebra, bringing a fresh perspective to the subject that wasn’t always her first love.
“I didn’t become a math teacher because I loved math,” Andrews said. “I became a math teacher because I love working with people.”
It wasn’t until college that Andrews discovered an unexpected connection between math and mental wellness.
“Math actually helped my mental health. It slowed my thoughts down and allowed me to focus on one step at a time,” Andrews said.
That realization fueled her desire to change how students experience the subject, especially those who struggle with it.
“I know math isn’t everyone’s favorite, but I want students to leave my class feeling more confident, not just in math, but in themselves.”
Building strong relationships is key to Andrews’ teaching approach. She values getting to know her students beyond academics and recognizing their diverse talents and interests.
“There are so many amazing things students do outside of school,” Andrews said. “Once you take the time to learn about them, the classroom dynamic changes.”
Outside of teaching, Andrews has another passion that lies with music. A guitarist and active band member, she finds joy in performing with friends.
“Music is my favorite thing outside of teaching,” Andrews said. “It’s such a great creative outlet.”
In the classroom, she makes math engaging with creative approaches, including a quadratic formula song set to Adele’s “Rolling in the Deep.”
“It’s a fun way to make things stick,” Andrews said.
Her innovative approach helps students feel less intimidated by complex topics and more willing to embrace challenges.
Reflecting on her career, Andrews hopes to leave behind a legacy of patience and kindness.
“I want my students to remember me as someone who was patient and kind,” Andrews said. “That’s what matters most.”
Andrews acknowledges the challenges teachers face, from student struggles to balancing expectations. Her philosophy is letting her students know that you can control what you can and let go of what you can’t.
“There’s only so much you can control,” Andrews said. “If something is out of my hands, I focus on moving forward rather than getting stuck in frustration.”
Her enthusiasm for teaching remains strong, driven by the growth she sees in her students.
“You all [students] grow so fast—mentally, emotionally, and in maturity,” Andrews said. “Watching that transformation keeps me
motivated.”
Beyond her classroom presence, Andrews is known for her love of “The Office,” her structured weekly routine—Monday movie nights, Wednesday band practice, and past sand volleyball Thursdays—and, most notably, her beloved cat, Dolores.
“She’s my angel,” Andrews said.
As she continues shaping young minds, Andrews remains grateful for the Westside community.
“I love how welcoming this school is,” Andrews said. “Even students I don’t have in class make me feel like I belong. That’s special.”
Though only in her second year at Westside, Andrews has already made an impact. Whether through math, music, or meaningful conversations, she ensures her students walk away with more than just academic knowledge. Students leave her classroom with newfound confidence, a supportive mentor, and, if they’re lucky, a quadratic formula song they’ll never forget.
