Alisha McLelland is a fourth grad teacher at Woodlands Elementary.

McLelland is originally from Houston, Texas and has lived in Ponca City for about 20 years. She is a third generation Ponca City High School graduate, graduating in 2008.

A lifelong learner who is passionate about her own education, McLelland decided education would be a great career path for herself.

“My inspiration for teaching came from one of my English teachers, Betsy Easley, who had confidence in me when I didn’t and my college advisor, long term mentor and friend, Don Stinson, who opened my mind to many new topics, especially literature and history,” said McLelland.

She possesses an Associate’s degree in English Literature from Northern Oklahoma College, a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education from Northwestern Oklahoma State University with classes taken at the University Center in Ponca City, and a Master’s in English Studies from Arizona State University.

One of McLelland’s favorite things about her jog are her colleagues at Woodlands.

“We really are a big family. I have developed relationships that will last a lifetime,” said McLelland. “I student-taught with Cindy Johndrow, and she continues to be my mentor. Tim Williams is a magnificent principal who has every teacher’s best interest in mind, and I couldn’t imagine working for anyone else. Kara Anderson, Woodland’s counselor, is a rock, and she has always been an amazing support system for me.”

McLelland also enjoys seeing the growth of students both academically and emotionally, even after they leave her classroom.

When it comes to teaching, McLelland’s philosophy has always been to have high expectations for all her students, and to provide a safe learning environment for them to grow.