Bulldog Girls Basketball holds Teacher Appreciation Night

Friday evening at Ross J. Richardson Memorial Gymnasium the Butte High Girls, behind Cadence Graham's 32 point performance, downed the Missoula Sentinel Spartans 72-47.  But the real story may have been a pregame ceremony where each Bulldog varsity player was given a moment at center court to honor a teacher who has made a difference in their life.

Here are the players and what they shared about their favorite teacher:

Junior Avery Barsness honored Mrs. Molly Stenson writing "I Chose Mrs. Stenson because I can still remember learning AND having fun in her class--which is rare.  Her kindness and humor has made an irreversible impact on my life and I wanted to thank her for it."

Junior Allie Becker honored Ms. Maria Robinson with "I am so glad I got to choose Mrs. Robinson as my teacher because we had a great connection and she made learning so much fun.  Not only has she made an impact on me as a student but also as a player when she was my coach."

Sophomore Stella Callaghan honored Mrs. Becky Watson, saying, "I chose Mrs. Watson because she was there for me unconditionally and was always a safe place to go when I needed it."

Junior Autumn Clary recognized Mr. Jaric McElroy, sharing, "I chose Mr. McElroy because his dad jokes made me laugh every day and even turned the toughest of days around.  He pushed me to be a better person while always caring about who I am as a person."

Junior Cadence Graham chose Mrs. Julie Johns, saying, "I picked Mrs. Johns because she cares about each and every one of her students both on and off the court.  Thank you, Mrs. Johns, for all you do and thank you for being here tonight to support me."

Freshman Elli Graham recognized Ms. Lindsey Kambich, writing, "I chose Ms. Kambich because on only is she my favorite but she is a great role model.  I love her lighthearted personality and smile.  She is always supporting us both on and off the court."

Freshman Saege Grey honored Mr. Corey Cutler, stating, "Mr. Cutler is always encouraging me in everything I do.  He truly cares about his students and I am very lucky to have him as a teacher.

Junior Reese Johnson chose to honor Mrs. Anna Keltner, writing, "I chose Mrs. Keltner because she always supported my education and made me a better student.  She has always stood out to me because of how strong a human being she is, which I inspire to be like."

Junior Kendallyn Schad recognized Mrs. Cara Whitlock, stating, "I chose Mrs. Whitlock because she always encouraged me and made me feel capable.  She taught me that trying my best mattered more than being perfect and I still use those lessons today both in school and on the court."

Junior Ellie Yates honored Mrs. Wendy Schoonen, saying, "Frau makes learning a fun experience.  She's understanding of all her students and is so easy to connect and talk with.  Thank you, Frau, for being so great."

Senior Emma Johnson chose Mr. Terry Faulkner, stating, "Mr. Faulkner is not just a coach, a teacher or a mentor, but someone who has helped shape me into a better athlete and a better person.  He pushes us to work harder, believe in ourselves, and never take the easy way out.  At the same time, he's hands down the funniest person I know, always making us laugh even on the toughest days.  Thank you, Mr. Faulkner, for everything you do."

Senior Franki Salusso recognized Mrs. Joanna Benach, saying, "I chose Mrs. Benach because not only is she a great teacher and mentor, but she also makes learning fun.  She encourages you to work hard and push yourself while always being supported.  Her kindness, humor and passion for teaching makes her class a place where students feel confident, motivated and excited to learn."