![Sherry Downey named ECHS Teacher of the Year]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1770241785/tulsaschoolsorg/zvkb6scvv3lp6fiwuzrz/SherryDowney.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1770241785/tulsaschoolsorg/zvkb6scvv3lp6fiwuzrz/SherryDowney.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1770241785/tulsaschoolsorg/zvkb6scvv3lp6fiwuzrz/SherryDowney.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1770241785/tulsaschoolsorg/zvkb6scvv3lp6fiwuzrz/SherryDowney.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1770241785/tulsaschoolsorg/zvkb6scvv3lp6fiwuzrz/SherryDowney.jpg","width":1542}])
Sherry Downey is the 2025-2026 East Central High School Teacher of the Year!
Sherry joined the team at East Central as the mathematics and computer science teacher sixteen years ago. She also serves as the mathematics department lead. We asked Sherry a few questions to learn more about her and her time in Tulsa Public Schools.
What led you to a career in education?
I retired from being a computer programmer to be a stay-at-home mom. Very quickly, I became bored and began to volunteer at my four children's schools. This quickly turned into subbing. After a year or so of that, a teacher asked me, “Why don’t you just get your certification and get a job here? You are here all the time anyway!” I replied, “You can do that?” and the rest is history!
What is your favorite thing about your work?
Watching students grow, not just in education but in confidence and self-worth. Having four children myself, I realized how much a teacher impacts a student’s life. I love being part of that process.
What is one thing you are passionate about outside of teaching?
Family – especially my nine grandchildren. I love crocheting, playing piano, cooking, and flower gardening. Hmm, I guess we could add eating chocolate to that list!
Is there anything else you would like to share?
East Central High School has truly been my home away from home for the past sixteen years. Teaching here has gifted me not only unforgettable memories but lifelong friendships with an incredible staff who became family. Along the way, I found I love with more than just teaching—I love our students: getting to know them, believing in them, and watching them grow into who they were meant to be. I still cry at every graduation, because each one represents so much more than a ceremony. It represents perseverance, growth, and shared struggles, and I am endlessly proud to have been part of that journey.
As I retire after this year, I can’t imagine a more beautiful way to close this chapter. I hope every teacher knows the impact they have and the power they hold to light the way for their students. Our kids need teachers who care deeply, who believe fiercely, and who give their very best every single day.