Carrie Ochap

cochap@wcdsedu.com
304.232.2430

Carrie Ochap

Middle School/Middle School Director

What inspired you to become a teacher? 

When I was in high school, I had a teacher who was also my cross country coach. He was so dedicated to the students not only in the classroom but also out on the course. He inspired me to be a teacher and have that same dedication to my students.  

Who inspires you the most? 

 My kids inspire me. It’s not easy to live in this world today. They both work hard and try there best on everything they do. They never give up and always put a smile on my face.  

 What adjectives would you use to describe your presence in the classroom? 

Dedicated, Curious, Motherly, Loving, Caring , Engaging, Helpful  

How has becoming a teacher changed for you over the years? 

I started as a Special Education teacher who went into the classroom to help students with learning differences. Then I moved my way into teaching PE and Health which lead me to coaching several sports at the high school level. After realizing I needed a change, I moved to being a Director of middle school.  

 If you weren’t teaching, what career would you have chosen? 

I always thought I would have loved being an Athletic Trainer for some sort of professional sports team.  

Growing up, who was your most inspirational teacher and why? 

I would say my most inspirational teacher was my high school science teacher. He was dedicated to the students and was always there for you. He was also my high school cross-country coach.  

What do you consider to be your greatest achievement as a teacher so far? 

My greatest achievement as a teacher so far would be having the middle school grow every year that it has been open and having students leave us and be successful in the high school of their choice.  

What are some of the most important life skills you hope to instill in your students? 

Advocate for yourself