It’s the start of a new school year, and that brings new teachers! More specifically, we have a new math teacher, Mr. Keaton; he teaches Algebra I and AP Statistics. Mr. Keaton thinks it’s important to teach math because it shows up in every area of life. “Math was always quick and easy, and even when I was in high school, I would help my other classmates with their math. I think anywhere you go in life, there’s going to be math.”
It’s no wonder Mr. Keaton felt an inclination to teach, as he comes from a line of teachers: “My dad was my elementary school principal. My mom was a teacher of mine. So it just came naturally.”
However, teaching isn’t the only profession he’s been in. After starting out his career in education for four years, he switched to working for the government. “I worked for the federal government for 24 years, and then, you know, that ended. And then I decided that I missed teaching, and I’m glad to be back and go from here.”
When asked what he’s enjoyed most here at Wilde Lake so far, and what he expects from this school year, he says, “I enjoyed homecoming. I’ve heard there are other things coming down the line that I really want to do. I’m looking to see the different activities that happen. I expect growth. I expect to see my students grow, and I expect to see myself grow as a teacher and get better as I go along.”
Mr. Keaton thinks it’s very important to connect with students in the classroom. According to him, a relationship with students is crucial to their learning. “I want them to feel comfortable in my classroom. I want them to know that it’s okay to make mistakes in my room. They’re going to make mistakes. That’s just part of the way it goes.”
Outside of the classroom, Mr. Keaton enjoys an abundance of things: “I’m married, and I have a 16-year-old son who’s a junior. I enjoy going to amusement parks, riding roller coasters, I like to travel, I like to go on cruises, and I enjoy doing puzzles.”
Mr. Keaton is a very charming teacher with a passion for math! Don’t be afraid to say hi to him in the hallways.
