First-year teacher finds success

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For most first-year teachers, entering a new environment can be filled with pressure and nerves. But for P.E. teacher Jarod Schwartz, he fit right in at Mead Public Schools. 

Schwartz, a first-year P.E teacher and girl basketball assistant coach, graduated high school from McCool Junction. After going to a small school his whole life, Mead felt like the perfect option for Schwartz. 

“When I applied to Mead, I liked the location,” Schwartz said. “After talking with administration, they were looking for young, motivated teachers - so I thought I was going to be an awesome fit.” 

Not only did Schwartz think he would be a perfect fit, but the students do as well. 

Sophomore Hadley Havelka became acquainted with Schwartz during summer basketball camps.

“Coach Schwartz understands more, and we have a pretty good relationship,” Havelka said. “I think with him being younger he can help us way more.” 

In addition to Schwartz taking basketball seriously, he also makes P.E. a top priority. Junior Jayden Reed said he loves Schwartz’ teaching style in the weightroom. 

“He’s a really fun, laid-back teacher, but still keeps a serious face so class runs smoothly,” Reed said. “He applies it (workouts) to himself too, so it’s not just us doing it.” 

Although Schwartz loves the administration and small population at school, a few cons exist with such few students.

“You know everybody in the school, so there's no avoiding anything,” Schwartz said. “Everybody knows everybody's business.” 

Familiarizing yourself with a new school, new people and new traditions may be tough, but having a good friend makes that a little easier. Math teacher Rod Henkel’s classroom is right next to Schwartz, and he likes to help any way he can. 

“I can share some knowledge with him and I enjoy that mentoring part,” Henkel said. “We’re in education for a reason, and part of that is to make a difference in people's lives.” 

Not only is Schwartz receiving motivation from teachers and students, but he is a self-motivator as well. He puts a lot of thought into different workout plans and activities for his students. 

“My plan is that after you leave one of my P.E. or weights classes, you have a better idea of ways you can be physically active and healthy after you leave high school,” Schwartz said. “Finding different sports and activities that you’ve never heard of and finding out they’re kind of fun and they can help you live a healthy life outside of school.” 

Overall, Schwartz has been an impactful addition to the staff. He has built connections with students, put effort into his classes, and stayed motivated the whole time. 

“He is a very high energy and flexible teacher,” Reed said. “He keeps everybody in check and makes class enjoyable for everybody.”

Coach Schwartz helps to fill in for a student that was late to class.

Schwartz assigns racks in the weight room.