1. What are some differences you see from high school to middle school?

The building is definitely the biggest difference. Having to move from classroom to classroom and logging into and out of the computer every class takes up some class time. It’s more difficult because at the middle school I could post things and have everything set-up before class.

2. If you weren’t a teacher what would you be?

A professional soccer coach.

3. What’s your favorite book?

The Odyssey

4. What’s your favorite pastime outside of school?

Playing soccer with my kids, watching soccer with my family, exercising, and watching movies and shows with my wife.

5. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given or what’s the best advice you can give to your students?

I have two and both are from my father: choose your friends wisely and be a leader, not a follower. Always stick out. For my students, I have two, the first one is asking yourself 30 years from now what difference will it make? Stressing out about an essay or presentation won’t matter in 30 years. Work hard but still live your life. The second one is to work hard now so you can have fun later on in life.

6. What are some of your favorite movies? 

Gladiator, The Godfather, Forrest Gump, Mrs. Doubtfire, and the first Rocky movie.

7. What’s it like to be teaching students you’ve had in the past?

It’s really awesome. It’s one of the best parts of high school and I feel it’s an advantage because I can walk down the hallways or walk into study halls and feel welcome. There’s a real rapport between me and the students because I’ve had many of them in the past.