Greta Merkel

Greta is a fairly new 5th grade teacher at Trent Elementary with this being her second year in East Valley. Greta grew up in Liberty Lake and has always loved the Pacific Northwest. She enjoys being outside, hiking, camping, and traveling. She shared that growing up her mom always said she knew Greta was going to be a teacher; her mom is a huge reason why Greta is where she’s at today! Greta remembers going into her mom’s classroom during the summers and loving it, and when she was in elementary school, her mom even let her help teach one of her classes for a day.

Greta grew up playing soccer, and throughout high school loved being active and staying busy. As a student, she described herself as a hands-on learner. As a teacher, and when possible, she works to bring that kind of learning into her own classroom. Greta earned her teaching degree from Eastern Washington University (Go EAGS!) with an endorsement in Literacy, Reading, and Writing. 

Throughout high school and college she worked different jobs, but ultimately wanted a career that involved serving others. Overall, this is her fourth year teaching 5th grade, and she loves it. “The smiles, energy, and big personalities make everyday something new and interesting.” 

Greta recently became engaged, and she and her fiancé have purchased a house that they are busy remodeling. During her free time Greta enjoys traveling, spending time with family, camping at Priest Lake, and staying busy. 

Why she loves Trent: Trent has a great support system with so many teachers and staff members who have a lot of knowledge and insight to share. “I love that no matter what I might be going through during a day, someone else has been there before too, and they offer help, ideas, or just relate.”

Why she chose East Valley: Greta’s mom (Lori Merkel) has taught in EVSD for almost 30 years, so she is very familiar with East Valley. She knew she wanted to stay close to home, and after being hired here, has found East Valley to be supportive and truly wanting what is best for kids.

Favorite part of her job: Greta’s favorite part of her job is her students. She said that fifth grade is such a fun, awkward time in kids’ lives because they are truly coming to be their own person and finding their place. “They start to have a sense of humor and understand sarcasm.”  She shared they are still so spongy and excited to learn but strong willed enough to really share their opinions. She loves how even the small things are still so magical and exciting to them. “Every day is a new day and I learn so much from my students throughout year. It really is the best.”

Fun fact: She has her class A skydiving license!