Martha “Ann” Wilrye, 38, has always loved to help.

It has been her passion for as long as she can remember. She was taught the art of aid by observing how others supported her when she was young. Wilrye was especially influenced by the care and attention her grade school teachers gave her.

“When I was a kid, I had to rely on others to help me. My teachers and coaches were huge mentors to me. Had they not have been my support system in my high school years, my life would have been completely different. They helped me when I needed them most.”

She graduated from Westlake High School and then McNeese State University with a bachelor’s in general studies. While she was in college, she began driving buses because it allowed her to simultaneously attend class and maintain a full-time job.

In present day, she still drives a morning and afternoon bus route in addition to teaching. She has taught special education for three years at Sam Houston High School. Her position allows her to interact with students from all four grades and touch on every subject.

Teachers need to have an “empathetic and compassionate heart.” Wilrye takes it a step further and strives to be the heartbeat of her classroom.

“Students today, more than ever, need to have mentors who are present for them, both academically and emotionally,” she said. “The positive impact you can make as an educator, can truly inspire and motivate your students to reach their full potential as adults.”

Being present and kind is no burden to her. She enjoys helping the students that “need a little extra support,” and her students notice.

“Throughout the year I am always willing to help students, and as a result they know that they can ask me the hard questions. Students know that I will do what it takes to help them understand and learn in the process. “

Wilrye is happiest when personally connecting with students to “help them reach their full potential.” Sometimes, this means being empathetic of students’ non-academic struggles and providing them with a safe space.

“Knowing that every child’s home life is different and sometimes they need that extra emotional support at school.” She explained. “I understand when a kid comes in upset and they need those extra minutes to adjust, unwind, or just need a diet coke to make it through the day.”

Each student has goals, and Wilrye helps each one pass the finish line. She is able to do this because she is intuitive of students’ needs.

“I can see what others may not be able to see. When a student needs help, it is one of the hardest things for them to admit, but knowing that their teacher cares and always has an open door for them, helps lighten that burden.”

Her classroom is “upbeat and positive,” which help her to continuously foster “open and honest” relationships with her students.

“My door is always open and if they ever need someone to talk to, I am here. I think I make the students feel comfortable in opening up. They know that I will find away to help them in whatever they may need.”

Her educator’s philosophy is framed by school pride. The acronym is SHHS.

“S is for self-discipline, H is to have respect for yourself and others, H is also for honesty in action and words and S is to strive for success.”