Mrs. Keaton has taught English Language arts for 27 years in Akron Public Schools. She taught at Buchtel High School, Central Hower High School, Kenmore High School and AEC for 15 years.
When asked why she chose education as a career Mrs. Keaton said “I don’t believe I chose education. I believe it chose me. Why? Because I have a strong connection with young people. I think it is important for young people to see and hear teachers that can relate to their experiences. I feel my life, my culture and connection to the city of Akron helps me reach our students. Also, I love to read! So English Language Arts was a perfect fit for me.”
Mrs. Keaton said when an an English position opened up at AECHS and she was invited to apply as an English teacher she honestly, didn’t think she would get the position. However, when she was offered the position, she immediately jumped in with both feet and hasn’t looked back! According to Mrs. Keaton “I wanted to help students achieve their individual goals and dreams. If the student wanted to earn a degree, attend the military, or find secular employment, then I would help them with reading, writing, college readiness, applications,
leadership abilities, whatever it takes to help them reach their hopes and dreams. I wanted to be a small part of their success.”
Mrs. Keaton says “I love that AEC is a family. The teachers here are fully invested in all of our students' success and well being. Also, I love the fact that all of our teachers are encouraged to really be themselves. Because I can be authentic, my students see a teacher who is human which gives them a space to also be vulnerable.”
When asked about a special AECHS memory Mrs. Keaton said, “I have so many memories from AEC. Currently, I am the National Honor Society Adviser. The chapter hosts a scholarship for a former ELA Teacher, Mr. Steve Pryseski, who passed away. At this years induction, I was able to invite his wife, Mrs. Julie Pryseski, to attend and present the scholarships to deserving
seniors. This was the 10th anniversary of the scholarship. I am hoping the chapter members will see the impact of this act and truly value the four pillars.”
Mrs. Keaton also said “My role at AEC has changed. I am now the instructional coach. In this position, I assist the teachers and students in all content areas. In this role, I make a larger impact on the success of AEC because I am in all classes reaching all grade levels in various subjects. I share this to say that even though I don’t TEACH per se, I am still here everyday with the same commitment as before.”
Mrs. Keaton would like to thank parents for all of your support throughout my tenure. She said “I have always tried to educate and help your young people that you have entrusted to our school.”
Mrs. Keaton wants students to know that “ I care deeply about each and every one of you.
You are awesome students and I cannot wait to see what you will accomplish in life.”
Mrs. Keaton has been a great teacher and mentor of mine all four of my years at Akron Early College. She has helped me grow as a student and a leader being the advisor for both the dance team and NHS. She is truly dedicated to her students and helping us achieve our full potential. Mrs. Keaton is the best!!
Lilliah Bitecofer
Senior
Mrs. Keaton is a selfless and radiant teacher that is a crucial pillar to our school. She is a vital part in bridging the gap between students and teachers within our school community. Her endless support and passion for teaching inspires students and teachers alike to strive to be the best version of themselves. She is beyond deserving of recognition and praise for all that she does and the incredible person that she is
Grace McNeeley
Senior
Mrs.Keaton is one of the teachers that impacted my time the most while being at Akron Early. She’s always there when I need to laugh, vent, or cry. I am so appreciative of her and everything she has done for me. I’m not sure what I would do without her. I will never forget the impact that she had on my time here at aec!
Jaelynn Wattley
Senior
Mrs. Keaton, your very hard working and passionate person. I have seen the kindness you share and the works you’ve done. Love ya
Prena Pokwol
Freshmen
Mrs. Keaton has a rare ability to both make students & colleagues feel loved while also asking them to pursue a better version of themselves. Akron Early is blessed to have her!
Mrs. Dunn
Staff
I am so proud to not only work with Wendy but to also call her a friend. She always has gone above and beyond for our students. She deserves all the recognition for being an amazing educator and a wonderful woman. I am blessed that I get to work with her and learn from her.
Ms. Andrews
Staff
Wendy has always been my "go to" for anything I need here at Early Collège. She helped me when I was new here at Early College, and she has continued to be a constant source of support since. She knows so much about our school and our district. I couldn't respect a colleague more than I do Mrs. Keaton.
Mr. McCown
Staff
Wendy is a very conscientious, responsible, reliable and hard working professional. She is dedicated to the Akron Early College students and staff's success.
I have known Wendy for a long time and truly think that she is one of a kind. She never fails to give anything and everything that is needed to the school. She has a big heart, is liked by all and cares about everyone around her. She has a heart of gold :)
Mrs. Kotran
Staff
I have had the pleasure to work with Mrs. Keaton for the last 14 years. She is professional, hard working and cares deeply about the success of our students and she shows this in everything she does. She goes above and beyond for our students, our staff and our school. We are very fortunate to have her.
We are very fortunate to have Mrs. Keaton as a part of the AECHS staff.
Mr. Tom O’Neil
Principal
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