“I have had many fond memories working at Gulliver, which is probably what keeps me coming back year after year. I have had the privilege of teaching government and economics for 25 years, and the discussions I have had with my students have had a life-changing impact on me. I may teach the same curriculum, but the daily discussions have had a profound impact on my own life. I feel I have learned two significant lessons throughout my years at Gulliver.

First, it’s not necessarily what you are teaching or saying; it is how you treat others when you’re teaching or saying something. Listening without judgement has always been difficult for me. I have a strong presence, and I demand a lot of myself and others. However, I have realized that not every person is like me, and I must meet them where they are at and understand how their journey has impacted them as well. To become a better educator means you need to prepare, learn, question, but especially listen to what people are saying to you.

Secondly, I learned the power of being present. Life throws all types of curveballs at you; whether they are opportunities or challenges to the status quo, and I have tried to live my life in the present. I know I have made my fair share of mistakes as a teacher, a friend, and as a father, but dwelling on those failures would be a mistake. I believe I need to correct that behavior and make myself the best version of me that I can. It’s what we as educators want for all of our students.

Ultimately I think that being a Raider is about valuing personal and communal growth that is bound by a culture of respect, motivation, and pride.”