The Mycenaean

Ms. Van Gorden is a new addition to Leesville Road High School’s teaching staff. She teaches Economics and Personal Finance, as well as Holocaust and Genocide.

This year marks her first as a full-time teacher, but her connection to Leesville goes back years. Van Gorden is also an alumna of Leesville class of 2019 and a graduate of Appalachian State University.

Returning to teach at her former high school has been a full-circle moment for her. “Honestly, I didn’t know where I would end up,” said Van Gorden.

Van Gorden began her teaching journey at Millbrook High School while still in college. “It’s really cool to now be back at Leesville, where I went to high school,” said Van Gorden.

Even though she has only been at Leesville for one quarter, Van Gorden has already made a strong impression. Her ability to connect with students and her attention to detail have not gone unnoticed.

“Ms. Van Gorden is a very good teacher,” said Addison Lorey, senior. “Her attention to detail and ability to connect with kids in our class makes her a valuable asset to Leesville’s teaching staff.”

Van Gorden’s classes cover a variety of important topics. She encourages her students to engage with real-world issues through discussions on history, finance, and global events.

In subjects like Holocaust and Genocide Studies, Van Gorden brings sensitivity and creativity to her lessons. She aims to help students think critically about the connections between history and the present day.

Her background as a former student at Leesville helps her connect with her students. “It’s strange but really cool to be on the teacher’s point of view now,” said Van Gorden.

As the year progresses, she is excited to continue developing her teaching style. Her goal is to create a classroom environment where students feel supported and eager to learn.

Though this is just the beginning of her teaching career, Van Gorden’s presence is already having a positive impact. Her passion for education and ties to the school make her a valuable asset to the Leesville community.