Ms. Samatha Topps, a new teacher at Mount Carmel, hopes to make an impact in and out of the classroom for the young men at Mount Carmel. “I want to build great relationships with young men, but I also want them to understand how to respect women in the real world. I want to show them that as a woman math teacher, that I can prepare them for college and life.”

Topps grew up on the west side of Chicago.  One of her interests growing up was playing in a band.  After receiving her diploma, she began college at Illinois State University for her freshman and sophomore years.  For her final two years of college, she transferred to Lincoln College, where she received her bachelor’s degree in business management and accounting.  Topps then pursued her master’s degree at Drake University.

From the beginning, Topps’ passion has always been math.  She currently teaches algebra II/trigonometry for juniors, and pre-calculus for seniors.  Prior to teaching at MC, she taught at Gary Comer College Prep, and it took her just a few weeks to realize what Mount Carmel is all about.  She calls it a “very rich and powerful culture.”

Ms. Topps, who loves to cook, garden, and spend time with her children, is also very impressed with the character the students at Mount Carmel have.  “The young men are very prideful.”