At just one year into her teaching career, Piper Tucker has already found her rhythm in the classroom and on the sidelines at Enid High School. A 2024 graduate of the University of Oklahoma, Tucker teaches Media Studies & Advertising, Youth Entrepreneurship, and serves as the head coach for the Enid Pom Squad. Though teaching in a high school wasn’t always part of her plan, she’s quickly grown passionate about the impact she can make.

“When I moved back home, I was mainly focused on coaching the Pom Squad,” she said. “But during my interview, they saw my Marketing degree and thought I’d be a great fit for teaching, too. I decided to take a chance—and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve made.”

Tucker works with students across all grades and says the most rewarding part of teaching is being someone her students can rely on. “I remember how much it meant to have teachers I could talk to and count on when I was in high school. Now, I hope to be that person for my students.”

Her own journey has been shaped by educators and mentors who left a lasting impression, especially her childhood dance teacher Melissa Hunt and her OU Pom coach Taylor Burget. “They both played huge roles in shaping who I am,” Tucker said. “They helped me chase big dreams and created spaces where I felt supported.”

Outside the classroom, Piper remains involved in the local dance scene, continuing to teach at Hype Dance Productions—a role she’s held since high school. When she’s not dancing or teaching, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, going for walks, and playing board games.

Reflecting on her first year of teaching, Tucker feels both grateful and grounded. “This has been such a meaningful chapter,” she said. “Getting to come back to the community that raised me and work alongside former teachers has been a full-circle moment. I’m excited to keep growing and learning as an educator.”