Mrs. VanOverbeke is a semi-tall, curvy English teacher with short, curly brunette hair. Her smile is bright and she always has one on her face. VanOverbeke is a very personable and enthusiastic person. My first impression of VanOverbeke was goofy. She speaks, and in the same breath, makes commentary about what she’s just said. She never misses a chance to interact with her students. As a mother of two little children, she is chaotic and apologetically so. But that’s what makes her, her.
When asked what she hopes to contribute to the world, VanOverbeke says, “I sort of hope teaching is my contribution to the world and a sort of legacy in a way. I mean, I will never be some grand world-leader or celebrity, but I can find comfort in knowing that I tried to help teenagers find themselves and learn to navigate the world through stories and language.” That one sentence perfectly sums up Mrs. VanOverbeke. A selfless and noble model citizen who prioritizes the well-being and success of others above all else. Her dedication goes beyond her classroom, as she offers guidance, encouragement, and unwavering support, without seeking recognition, her only reward being the positive impact she has on her students. If she’s not in her classroom with her students, she’s working around the clock with the school community. VanOverbeke regrettably can never say no, it’s a never ending joke among the staff. She’s incredibly involved in the extracurriculars of the school, such as; float building for as long as she’s been employed here, ELA department head and continuous improvement chair, technology coordinator, 2027 class sponsor, KVA mentor and KVA teacher of record, mentor of teachers, among various other activities she has been involved in.
Throughout 5th hour AP Literature and Composition, VanOverbeke connects with her students. She laughs and jokes with each. She has an incredible ability to make literature come alive, simplifying lessons in a way we can all understand and relate to. One thing that sets her apart from the rest is how refreshingly lighthearted she is. She has the ability to not take herself too seriously and has a laid back attitude, which creates an atmosphere where students feel comfortable and relaxed. She knows when to crack a joke and let her guard down, all while maintaining the respect and focus of her class. The balance she holds between being both approachable and serious when needed allows her to connect with students on a personal level, making them feel like they’re not just in a classroom, but a space where they can grow, learn, and have fun along the way.
Mrs. VanOverbeke takes immense pride in being a mother, and it’s clear her experience as a mother enriches her role as a teacher. She often shares stories about her children, the joy she feels of being a mother. When asked when she feels most at peace, VanOverbeke states, “Probably when I am present with my kids and just playing or goofing around with them.” VanOverbeke’s selfless attitude extends beyond the classroom and into her role as a mother, where her kindness and love shines even brighter.
Beyond her passion for teaching, VanOverbeke is a mother of two young children, Paul and Kate. As a mother, family time is a priority in the her household. When asked what her favorite childhood memory was, she talked about her annual family trips to Disney. VanOverbeke took her family to Disney last summer for the first time, but she wants to continue these family traditions to Disney like her family did when she was younger.
All in all, you need a VanOverbeke in your life.
