Inspirational Feature by J1 Reporter
Delaney Villarreal

As the morning bell rings, a crew of tired middle school students file into their first class.

They sit in their seats and peruse the highly decorated room around them. Color, words, and pictures pop out of them with more liveliness than they are prepared for this early in the morning. When the teacher arrives, they slump a bit lower in their chairs until she begins to speak.

Mrs. Sonja Dreher is a seventh and eighth grade religion teacher at St. Patrick’s Catholic School in Elkhorn. She is well known for her passionate and personable character. Her positivity is infectious and her favorite word is “potential.” However, her most notable trait is her overwhelming enthusiasm.

With a few words, the class is up out of the seats and stretching. A few confused smiles start at the front end of the room as the students listen to one of her renown study raps. By the end of class, student are falling back into their chairs, holding their stomachs from laughter.

“I have no problem making a fool of myself if it helps them learn,” Dreher says. “I am able to stay so energetic by feeding off their desire to learn. They are like human sponges!”

By using these unique ways to connect kids to their faith, Dreher makes sure religion is no longer just a dreary graduation requirement.

Junior Maddie Mingo recalls her middle school classes with Dreher. “Mrs. Dreher is an extremely positive and uplifting person. She leads very faithful life, which inspires others to do the same.”

“Staying positive all the time is a struggle so I rely on Scripture and constantly remind myself that it is a choice I am making.” Dreher said.

She is an inspiration to stay happy in the hardships and to stay committed and loyal to others. Dreher is fully devoted to her students. “My goals in life have become focused on others…I want my students to know I care about them.” She said cheerfully. “I am so blessed that I am able to touch the lives of children in a positive way.”