Meet the Teachers

Lisa Farwell

Art is a much-loved passion for Kelliher's new art teacher, Lisa Farwell.

Farwell, who has been teaching art for the past two years is looking forward to working with students and help them express their ideas and thoughts into a piece of art.

Last year, after graduating from Bemidji State University with a degree in Design Technology and Art Education, Farwell taught at a charter school in Rochester.

"The school was quite a bit different, but I was a part-time teacher and a substitute for the school," she said.

The Kelliher School District seems to be a good match for Farwell.

"The first week blew right by from trying to remember names and faces of all the new people," she said. "This is a great school and it has been a great experience so far."

When looking into the future, Farwell hopes she can get involved in the community and help create some amazing art with her new students.

Cody Nord

Blackduck native Cody Nord always hoped he'd have the opportunity to come back to his hometown and teach someday. His desire came true after applying for the mathematics teaching position, which he holds for the first time this school year.

"I have been looking for an opportunity to come back and teach at Blackduck for a couple years," Nord said. "My family and friends have been watching for openings and when told about the opening, I applied immediately."

Nord received his teaching degree from Wheaton College in Wheaton, IL. He spent last year in Ely teaching at Washington Memorial High School while a staff member took a leave of absence.

"My favorite part of teaching is working individually with students who are struggling," Nord said. "When I have the chance to see the light turn on when they finally get it, it is extremely rewarding to see the frustration melt away into a moment of excitement about math."

According to Nord, the first few weeks back to school have been so far, so good. He has enjoyed getting to know his students as well as the rest of the faculty and staff at the school.

"I expect this year to be a rewarding year and I look forward to helping students understand the value and importance of math," Nord said.