Few names carry as much weight as English teacher Lou Ann Burnham’s. As the longest-serving teacher at AHS, her name has built a reputation over the years, one that often precedes her. Known for her rigorous coursework and high expectations, many students hear stories before even stepping into her classroom. But those who do take her class, however, often discover a different side of her—one that pushes them to grow in ways they never expected.
For 36 years, Burnham has dedicated her career to shaping students’ reading, writing and critical thinking skills.
“If students are not challenged to become better readers, thinkers and writers, then I am not doing my job,” she said. “I am not looking for perfection in my students. I am looking to foster growth and confidence.”
Her tough grading and strict approach can be intimidating, but she insists it’s because she believes in her students.
Her impact isn’t just limited to her students.
English teacher Denise Fuller said she remembers how Burnham mentored her when she first got the job.
“When I first started, she really took me under her wing,” Fuller said. “She was so kind and made sure I wasn’t overwhelmed. She shared her materials with me and guided me every step of the way, making my transition so much easier. She’s not just an incredible teacher—she’s incredibly funny too, which people don’t always realize.”
Senior Issac Lalonde said he heard plenty of things about Burnham before taking her class, but his experience completely changed his perspective.
“I heard so much about her, but honestly, it’s nothing like people say,” he said. “She took my writing to a whole new level. I’ve grown so much academically, and if I had the chance, I’d take her class again.”
Junior Miley Massey said she shares a similar experience.
“People talk about how tough she is, but once you’re in her class, you realize she just wants to see you succeed,” she said. “I have a really busy schedule with extracurriculars, but even with her strict policies, she’s super understanding and always willing to help. She pushes you, but in the best way possible.”
Burnham said she is aware of how students perceive her.
“I love to meet with students, but unfortunately, few come in for help,” she said. “Those who do, find out that I am a person, too—and pretty cool to know.”
She encourages students to talk to her, whether in-person or over email, because she genuinely wants to see them succeed.
Over the years, Burnham admitted she has adapted her teaching style.
“I used to be much stricter,” she said. “In my younger teaching days, I expected much more, but the school culture was different and students were different.”
Today, she said she focuses on in-class learning rather than heavier homework loads, knowing that students juggle multiple responsibilities.
“My role is a teacher, not a friend,” she said. “If a student likes me, that’s icing on the cake. But I never want a student to leave AHS and say they didn’t learn anything. That’s what keeps me going. I’ve even had a few students apologize for not realizing sooner how much I cared.”
Beyond writing and literature, Burnham said she hopes her students take away something more meaningful.
“I hope that my students see their value as a person, their potential and their capability of doing great things,” she said. “The only thing limiting them is themselves.”
For those struggling in her class, she has one message: “Come see me. I want to help you. I won’t do the work for you, but I believe in you.”
As students walk out of her classroom at the end of the year, they may not remember every novel they read, but she hopes they will remember the lessons in discipline, and to Mrs. Burnham, that is the ultimate reward.
“I have no children of my own, so every student I ever had will be one of my students,” she said, stressing the word, “my.” “Teaching is my calling—God wanted me here, and I work for him.”