The ‘new’ OCS teacher you may already have met: Anna Vedder

||| FROM ORCAS CHRISTIAN SCHOOL |||

Although she has been a familiar presence on the campus of Orcas Christian School [OCS) for more than 20 years, this school year marks the first time Anna Vedder has had a classroom of her own. Over the years, she has served as a parent, volunteer, school board member, substitute teacher, part-time teacher, and office staff member.

As a teacher at OCS, Vedder teaches Bible for sixth grade, reading for grades 6-8, math for grades 7-8, and geometry and Algebra 2 for high school students.

Vedder is beloved by her students, who admire her passion and enthusiasm. “Mrs. Anna is a wonderful and very positive teacher,” said OCS student Efrem Shelton. “Not only does she enjoy teaching, but she’s also a true math teacher. Before class starts, she always asks how we are doing, and from her enjoyment of math, she talks about it like it’s a fun game, saying, “Are you ready to play math? Overall, Mrs. Anna is an amazing teacher; I would say she is the most math-driven teacher I’ve ever had.”

Anna and her family moved to Orcas Island, so their daughter could attend OCS. Once settled, Anna pursued her degree, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics from Western Governors University in 2014. She also obtained her Washington state teaching certificate.

Her husband, Brian, worked as a carpenter on Orcas for 17 years before passing away in 2021. Their daughter, Alaina, now lives off-island and is raising a family that is too far away for frequent visits. Anna’s granddaughter is currently in second grade.

Raised in various places due to her father’s career in sales, Anna spent much of her childhood in Wisconsin and Alaska. Her interests and hobbies are as diverse as her life experiences. Nature, Bible study, fiber arts, and math top her list, but she has also enjoyed participating in the Orcas Choral Society when time allows.

Vedder’s move to a full-time teaching role at Orcas Christian School shows her long-time dedication to the school, where she’s been involved in many ways over the years. She brings a real love for subjects like math and Bible, connecting with students through her energy and care for them. With her wide range of experiences and passion for learning, Anna is a teacher who makes a lasting impact and is loved by her students.