Educators are perhaps the greatest population of unsung heroes in Berrien and Cass County This school year, Leader Publications will publish a weekly spotlight featuring teachers throughout the district, giving the community a chance to get to know the hard-working individuals shaping their children’s lives. Throughout the next school year, their answers will be published in the newspaper that serves each school district.

Name: Nic Hawley

School: Niles High School/Niles New Tech/Ring Lardner, Eastside Connections

Grade(s)/subject(s) taught: Health at Ring Lardner and Eastside, health at Niles High School, world studies (integrated world history/geography and English 11) course at Niles New Tech

Where did you attend college?

Associate of arts from West Shore Community College, B.A. from Aquinas College and M.A. in Educational Leadership from Grand Valley State University.

How many years have you been teaching? How many years have you been with your current school?

Approximately 13 years, (Niles High School/Niles New Tech-7 years, Ring Lardner/Eastside-2 years)

Why did you decide to become a teacher?

Originally it was an avenue to be involved with athletics. Through different classes and opportunities, it fostered into being able to make a difference and encouraging the heart as students grow in their passions.

Outside of school, what do you enjoy doing for fun?

Volunteering, watching movies, going to athletic events

What is one thing your students may not know about you?

Take your pick: I’ve seen an opera in the Sydney Opera House in Australia. I am a registered official in soccer and basketball, was a middle school spelling bee champion, took third place in a pie eating contest, like pineapple on my pizza and recently became an uncle.

Who is your favorite fictional character and why?

James Bond. I always enjoyed the films of Ian Fleming’s secret service agent.

When you were a student in the grade you teach, what were your favorite hobbies?

Going to the beach, riding around the farm on a golf cart, playing video games, reading or being involved in anything related to athletics (Sports Illustrated for Kids, sports page of the newspaper, going to sporting events, etc.).

How would your co-workers describe your teaching style and personality?

Genuine concern for students and positive passion for being involved in extracurriculars are the biggest accolades that I receive from my  colleagues, students, athletes, and parents. Additionally, displaying loyalty, being learner centered, and learner empowering.

Who is your biggest role model and why?

Parents, modeled perseverance and to roll with the changes.

How has education changed in the last 10 years?

Depends on the lens you take… different testing procedures, new techniques of learning and engagement, school safety, curriculum, requirements of professional development, etc.

What is your best advice to parents to help their child continue growing academically?

Have them share their day with you. What dynamic learning experiences did they have? How did they have diverse opportunities for engagement or new knowledge? What steps did they take today that could be attributed to tomorrow in their drive for success?

If my students learn one thing this year… I hope it is to be encouraged, to be involved in the world they live in.