One of the nicest people that I ever met is named Eugene Hahn. He happens to teach unfortunately one of the subjects with the most “testing pressure” at our school, which happens to be English language arts.
His optimism was evident from the minute he subbed at our school and yet continued to stay on the following year. Despite the stress of his first year teaching, getting very minimal sleep, and not eating a whole lot, he was able to persevere, build strong relationships with students, and establish nice camaraderie with all of the fellow staff. Two of the times we hung out happen to be at Dodger Games. That will change soon as he is initiated into the cult of Phil’s BBQ.
I won’t yet forget the shout-out he received from our Dean of Academic Supports insisting his classroom management was the best. And though he doubts himself a lot, he is improving at an enormous rate (better and better each day). He reminds me much of me when I first started teaching. I wore my heart on my sleeves and was oftentimes very emotional with the students. I hope he learns to maintain that balance and develop a stoic, yet firm demeanor.
My favorite activity that showcased his dedication to his student was the Reader’s Theatre of the Tale-Tell Heart, one of my favorite stories. I also happened to walk in on the time Mr. Sinohui blew up at some children, which was pretty funny in retrospect.
I’m hoping over time, his stressload and his workload gets reduced, and he continues being the best possible teacher. TOTY and CMOTY for sure.
He’s a great dancer as well, and shows his loyalty to his children by teaching them K-pop moves. I hope like the Dodgers, he will win the championship title one day and become principal of our school.
