MEET THE EDUCATOR: Heidi Helferich

>> NAME: Heidi Helferich.

>> SCHOOL: Permian High School.

>> TEACHES: Special Education, Emotionally Disturbed Unit.

>> LIVES IN: Odessa.

>> GREW UP IN: Odessa.

>> GRADUATED FROM: Bachelor’s and master’s degrees from UTPB.

>> FAMILY: My boyfriend, Joe, and his two kids, Janzen, 16, and Jordan, 11.

>> HOBBIES: I enjoy being outside especially when I am fishing. I am currently learning how to golf as well. Other interests of mine include exercising, watching movies, shopping and interior decorating. I, of course, enjoy hanging out with my buddy, Hank. Our dog, Hank, is the newest addition to our family. He is half Weimaraner and half Vizsla.

>> WHY SHE TEACHES: "I teach to help make a difference in the lives of young people academically, behaviorally and socially.

>> HER CLASS MISSION: "My mission is to guide young people whether General or Special Education into making appropriate, productive choices now and in their future upon graduation, and to realize their own uniqueness and value."

Educator profiles are provided by the individual’s institution. For information, call 333-7763.