New teachers bring energy and fresh perspectives to Eisenhower High

Sept. 4, 2025 By Elleigh Tarpley

This year, Eisenhower High School welcomed a number of new teachers, each bringing their own experiences, teaching styles, and passions to the classroom. From social studies to English, business and journalism, these teachers are already making an impact on students, showing that learning is about more than just memorizing facts—it’s about thinking critically, exploring new ideas, and discovering personal growth.

Connor Spellman
One of the newest social studies teachers, Connor Spellman has a strong focus on critical thinking.

He explained, “If you walk away from my class just knowing that the Civil War occurred from 1861 to 1865, I did not do my job correctly. I want students to develop their ability to critically think about something, not just take it at face value.”

For him, history is a tool to help students analyze, question and make informed decisions in life.

Ryan Storck
Ryan Stork, Eisenhower’s new law teacher, brings a unique perspective from his previous work in law enforcement and corrections.

“After working in law enforcement, I wanted to make a positive impact on students and help shape our future leaders,” Storck said. 

While his main passion is social studies and history, he enjoys teaching law classes and emphasizes respect, structure and real-world understanding. 

“Life after school is tough. There will be a lot of ups and downs, and I want students to understand that everyone has struggles, and respecting others’ ideas is key to success.

Stephanie Espinoza
Stephanie Espinoza, an English teacher, has always loved literature and enjoys helping students explore the meaning behind stories.

“I want my classroom to be a happy place,” she said. “Students may not remember all the details of what we read, but I want them to have a positive association with literature.”

She strives to make her classroom challenging but supportive, helping students grow while encouraging them to think deeply and discuss ideas openly.

Chandler Ochoa
Meanwhile, Chandler Ochoa, a journalism teacher, discovered her love for teaching while traveling and working abroad.

Reflecting on her experience, she said, “I felt really fulfilled teaching at a school in Haiti, and I realized this is the feeling I want to feel all the time. Becoming a teacher allows me to make a difference every day.”

She hopes her students understand that their voices matter and that they have the power to make changes in their community through education.

Tyler Newcomer
Tyler Newcomer, another social studies teacher, brings both energy and unexpected skills to the school. Outside the classroom, he shared a surprising fact: “I’ve beaten Elden Ring three times.”

His playful energy translates into his teaching, where he encourages students to engage with lessons in ways that connect to their everyday lives. He hopes students take away the ability to analyze sources and think critically—a skill he describes as essential for life beyond high school.

Nicole Friesen
Nicole Friesen, the newest addition to the business department, has a long history of teaching, coaching, and inspiring students. She originally wanted to teach math but switched paths after falling in love with accounting.

“I’d say I’m a business teacher at heart. Financial literacy is my jam—because it’s real world. Everybody has to learn how to manage their money and live within their means.”

After years at Wichita Heights and Wichita West, she’s impressed with Eisenhower students’ work ethic and attitude.

“Even at open house, so many students introduced themselves with a handshake,” she said. “That level of respect and responsibility really stood out to me.”

Her goal is that students leave her class prepared for real life—whether that’s exploring careers in business or even creating their own.

Angela Cortes
Anglea Cortes joins the English department with a passion that started early and was locked in during Advanced Placement Language her junior year.

“That class solidified it for me—I’m meant to be a high school English teacher,” she said.

She describes her approach as intentional, relational, and inspiring, meeting students where they are and helping them push through challenging texts. More than anything, she wants students to discover their own strength: “It’s within you to accomplish the things you set your mind to—people will guide you, but the capability is already there.”

Although each teacher comes from different backgrounds and experiences, they all share the same goal: helping students succeed academically and personally.

“I want students to feel empowered to make change in their community. Education is one of the best ways to do that,” Ochoa said.

With their dedication, passion, and fresh perspectives, these educators are shaping not just classrooms but the school culture itself.

Students at Eisenhower can look forward to a year full of growth, challenges, and exciting opportunities to learn from teachers who genuinely care about their success.