Mikayla Dokos is a full time substitute at IHS this school year, as Mr. Smith is traveling to Greece for Fulbright teaching. She had previously subbed during May 2022 at IHS, spending almost everyday in the building substituting in classes for nearly two years. 

As a relatively new teacher, this is her first experience teaching in a permanent classroom for the full year. She is teaching math subjects such as Pre-Algebra and Geometry, along with study hall classes. 

Ms. Dokos is enrolled in IUP and has completed her masters degree online while substituting at IHS. She attended Homer Center High School, committing time to achieve college credits through advanced placement and dual enrollment courses. 

During high school, she discovered her fascination for math through her academic hardships. She often spent free time assisting classmates with math homework and figured she could create a career with her interests in math and helping people. 

“I love being around the students,” Ms. Dokos explains, “I love to see everyone everyday, engage with them, and share all the content where you can participate together.” 

Her passion for teaching truly shines in the classroom by implementing unique activities targeted towards her students. She has created a system used to involve her students in participating called ‘Dokos Dollars.’ Students can earn a dollar during class for problem solving, asking questions, helping others, or telling a clever math joke. Profits can be traded in for prizes such as candy, stickers, or even a bonus point. 

Along with developing a well engaged classroom, Ms. Dokos has developed an effective solution to the problem every teacher deals with –  phones. As students walk into class, they are required to place their phones in a phone caddie beside the door. Many students find their phones to be addicting, especially in school, which makes Ms. Dokos’ arrangement preferable to students themselves. Leaving phones out of sight and reach has not only rewarded students with bonus points, but higher academic achievement as well. 

Sophomore Geometry student Brian Ash expresses his admiration for Ms. Dokos, “She is very interactive with her students in the classroom. You can tell that she wholeheartedly cares about education and learning.” 

While growing up, Ms. Dokos has always enjoyed swimming and was a part of the Homer Center Swim Team in high school. Now, when she’s not teaching during the school year, she spends her summer teaching private swim lessons for children. 

Some of her other favorite ways to stay active are spending time outside running, golfing, and working out. She has a wide variety of hobbies to keep her creative mind flowing, which involve crafting and crocheting projects. 

Another pastime she treasures is reading. Her current favorite books are Haunting Adeline and Hunting Adeline; the two novels are a part of a series written by H. D. Carlton. 

This school year she will be starting a Greek Club at IHS. Members will learn about Greek language, culture, and history. Ms. Dokos’s motivation to start this additional club is her time spent in Greece and to share her pride for her Greek heritage. 

Throughout the years, Ms. Dokos has substituted for classes and students have grown familiar with her bright charisma. Leia Wells, undergoing her junior year at IHS acclaims, “She may be a new teacher, but she is smart with a nice personality.” IHS students and staff are excited to experience the school year with an acquainted member.