Teacher Spotlight: Mrs. Gunther

Mrs. Gunther is one of those teachers you never forget. Her energy, laughter, and personality light up every room she walks into, and over the years, students, staff, and families have been blessed to experience her positivity and love.

Mrs. Gunther grew up in New Castle, Pennsylvania, and graduated from Union High School in 2003. She went on to earn a B.A. in Health and Physical Education from West Liberty University, where she graduated as valedictorian, and an M.S. in School Health Education from West Virginia University.

Teaching runs in her family. Her grandmother, aunts, and mom were all teachers, so it is no surprise that Mrs. Gunther found her calling at a young age. Her grandmother taught in a one-room schoolhouse, and her mom taught for 44 years.

Mrs. Gunther joined Valley in 2014 and built the Health and Physical Education program from the ground up. She now teaches Physical Education for grades 3–12, as well as Health I and Advanced Health for grades 9–12. Her classroom is not just about grades; it is about helping students grow into healthy, confident adults.

Some of her favorite memories come from eagleSERVE, the student community service club she created. Through eagleSERVE, students have traveled to serve others, volunteered locally, and even earned the 2021 United Way Rising Star Award.

Outside of school, Mrs. Gunther enjoys spending time with her husband, family, and three nephews, who call her “Nah-Na.” She also loves gardening, traveling, watching sports, and cooking for her family, which gives her time to create memories and share love around the table.

Even while facing personal health challenges, Mrs. Gunther stays focused on her students and continues to share meaningful life lessons, such as, “Control what you can control,” and “I’m just blessed where I am.”

Her advice for students is to “collect beautiful moments, no matter how small. On hard days, let those moments be your focus, not the chaos around you.”

Valley is lucky to have Mrs. Gunther’s energy, guidance, and laughter every day. The seniors especially want to say thank you for all of the support and memories. Mrs. Gunther, you have truly made a lasting impact!