Teacher of the Month is a segment of The Spectator where we feature a teacher at Berkley High School and take a deep dive into their lives beyond the classroom in order for the BHS community to get to know them better. This November, we are featuring Mr. Weingarden. He teaches Algebra two, Pre-Calculus, and AP Calculus AB at Berkley High School.
Mr. Weingarden is a unique and thoughtful teacher. His priority is for every student to do well and understand the material. Whether he is coming in early to help students prepare for their tests or coming to sporting events, he is always there for support. Mr. Weingarden makes it a priority to get to know his students and to make sure everyone understands each topic he covers. He even has the highest average AP test scores in the entire school! This just shows how great a teacher Mr. Weingarden truly is.
Q: What is the most rewarding part about being a teacher?
A: The great students I have had in class, meeting all their families over the years and having siblings.
Q: What are some challenges of being a teacher?
A: Students in class who aren’t motivated and students who don’t behave.
Q: How long have you been teaching?
A: 30 years and not done yet!
Q: How did you know you wanted to be a teacher?
A: My parents were both educators. When I started college I was a business major and then I noticed I did well in all my math classes, so it led me to the idea that I should be a math teacher like my dad was.
Q: What is your favorite class to teach and why?
A: AP Calculus AB because a lot of the students in these classes I have had for multiple years whether it was from Pre-Calculus or Algebra two. It is a great class. I like it because everything the students have learned throughout the entire year comes together when studying for the AP test. It is more than just a class. I feel as though I am the coach of the class, and I want to see at the finish line that everyone does well.
Q: Who was the best teacher you had growing up and how have they impacted your teaching?
A: My favorite teacher growing up was my English teacher. He was my favorite teacher because he taught me how to write and communicate. Even though I teach a completely different subject than English, he was someone that I really respected. When I became a teacher I wanted to be someone that my students respected as well.
Q: What aspects of your teaching are unique to you?
A: In Calculus, I have an extra credit review game where I give students the opportunity to improve their grade while reviewing for the upcoming test. I am always in school at least by 7:15 for anyone who needs help. I am also always available at lunch for support. I want to help my students.
Q: What activities do you participate in other than teaching?
A: I play tennis. My youngest son is a junior at North Farmington, so I watch his tennis. Tennis is a huge part of my life. I actually coached at Berkley for seven years for the boys team. When Berkley is down a coach, I have helped out. I still go to the matches multiple times every year to support Berkley. This year I even went with Mrs. Danaher to a soccer game. Even though I can’t be Superman and go to every event, I always like to show that I am interested and support my students.
Q: What is your favorite story from your years of teaching?
A: Mr. Waldman and I have played against students in the past, and it is always enjoyable. One time we played with two students who graduated, and it was such a fun thing to do with them.
Q: What is your best piece of advice?
A: For teachers, you have to enjoy what you do. Every day when I get up and go to work I am happy to be there. You have to love the job to be an effective teacher.
Q: Who inspires you?
A: My students in my classes. I am inspired every day to do an A+ job to help them learn.
