Staff Spotlight: Tina Buck, GCSD9

By Brayden Cook '26

Every week throughout the 2025-26 school year, Granite City Community School District #9 will be highlighting a staff member for going above and beyond to give students a positive experience.

This week’s staff highlight is Tina Buck.

Buck is an ESL/Bilingual teacher at Wilson, Frohardt, Lake ESSC, and Granite City High School. She has been a teacher for 14 years. Before becoming a full-time teacher at GCSD9, she was a substitute teacher for five years.

First Student Operations Support Specialist Sophia Polley praised Buck for her willingness to step in and help families whenever needed.

"Last year a GCSD9 translator gave me her phone number if we ever needed help and she has been nothing short of a blessing since. Her name is Tina Buck," Polley said. "For example, I came across two guardians of students on a bus that didn't speak English; I sent her their information, and she took care of it pronto."

What made you become a teacher?
I always wanted to be in education because I love helping people and bringing positivity and excitement to the classroom. I always learned more when I had fun in school. I hope my students remember me as a positive influence on their educational experience.

What is the most rewarding part of being an ESL/Bilingual teacher?
The most rewarding part of my job is helping hundreds of families, along with their teachers and staff, communicate with each other on a daily basis.

What’s your favorite memory from teaching so far?
My favorite memory from teaching is when I was at the Early Childhood Center. I had a 3-year-old Spanish-speaking student who was not potty trained. I bought him special pull-ups and helped him overcome his fears of the loud bathroom. He was potty trained in no time. His parents were so thankful I was there to comfort him with some Spanish and fancy pull-ups with cars on them.

What do you like to do outside of school?
I enjoy spending time with my husband, Ethan, and my three kids, Elzie, Evelyn, and Vivian. We also adopted a dog, Stormy, from Granite City Animal Control in June of this year. It is always busy, but so much fun!

What is your educational background?
I earned my master’s degree in elementary education at McKendree University and my minor was in Spanish.

If you weren’t a teacher, what job would you like to have?
I would love to help Spanish-speaking families through a translating service for those who need assistance with appointments, the DMV, and more.

What is your favorite food?
I love Mexican food! The flavors are amazing, and I enjoy the culture of the restaurants.

Who is someone you look up to and why?
I have always looked up to my mom, Pat Evans. She was a teacher and later a principal here in Granite City. My mom has been an inspiration to all. She has always been a hard worker, both as a mother and in education. At home, she created a loving environment with my dad. In school, the students always came first and were at the center of her career. I am thankful to have my mom as a role model in all areas of life.

If you would like to nominate a deserving staff member, please email: information@gcsd9.net