Teacher follows in mother’s footsteps

Posted on January 29, 2018 by Emily Lambie in Teacher Features // 0 Comments

Three years ago, Mr. Larry Ansell began teaching here at SHS in the same room as his mother, Susan Ansell. He introduced new, creative classes such as STEM, structural engineering, architecture, green technology and biotechnology. Mr. Ansell enjoys helping students find their career path using the classes he teaches.

Mr. Ansell says that for him personally, there is a lot more on the line teaching in the same room as his mother and that Susan’s “ghost” is always there.

“My mother was a teacher here at SHS for 30 years and everyone knew Susan,” said Mr. Ansell. “I feel that I have to live up to her name.”

Mr. Ansell has been teaching for 10 years all together. He has taught at Cedarbrook Middle school in Philadelphia, Peters Township near Pittsburgh, and so far three years at SHS.

“I am very comfortable here at Southmoreland,” said Mr. Ansell. “I have no desire to change now.”

Mr. Ansell also runs one of the most active clubs here at SHS called, The Future is Mine. TFIM teaches club members life principles and helps aid in career exploration, while having fun.

“I have many activities planned for TFIM,” said Mr. Ansell. “We’re taking the club to Philadelphia, going to Seven Springs on Feb. 9, holding career day in the first week of April, and Grimm Reaper Day the first week of May.”

Mr. Ansell plans on teaching at Southmoreland for many more years to come.