Madeline Allen
Greg Griffiths, Special Education Instructor
What career(s) were you interested in pursuing before you came to Aragon?
“In my late teens [to] mid-20s [in college], [I did] random jobs like installing car stereos, working in a ski shop [and] working with outdoor equipment at Sports Basement. I didn’t find my teaching role until I was about 30 years old.”
What led you to teach at Aragon?
“I taught at Peninsula High School and Burlingame High School. At Burlingame, they were overstaffed for special [education], [so] they offered a volunteer transfer. I never really clicked with Burlingame, and always heard good things about Aragon, so [when] the opportunity came, I [jumped] on it. Burlingame [has a] very high intensity with academics, and I feel there’s a similar culture here, but it’s more supportive for [students].”
How did you get into teaching?
“I’d always liked helping people, and I started coaching sports in high school when I was 16. I coached volleyball and basketball, and over the course of my career, I’ve coached a bunch of different sports. My parents worked in tech, and seeing people work [in] a cubicle was scary. I’d rather work somewhere where I’m more active.”
Russell Horton, 9th Grade Physical Education
What led to the switch from being a campus security officer to becoming a PE teacher?
“A lot of current teachers [pushed] me to go that route. They said that I have a good demeanor for [PE and] a good classroom management presence … In particular, Ms. Bussey really pushed me and helped me through my whole credential process.”
If you could highlight one aspect of your personality, what would it be and why?
“I’m a very empathetic person. I can relate to others, I can understand what people are going through and how they’re feeling, so that helps me as a teacher because I can understand how kids [might] not be having a great day, whether that’s stuff at home or something at school. I feel like my empathy definitely helps in my teaching.”
Have you taught PE before?
“I’m brand new to PE. I’ve coached football, basketball, [and] I’m currently the JV flag football coach. So [although] I’ve coached before, PE [is new]. I’ve done student teaching here last year while I was [getting] my [teaching] credential, but as a full time teacher, this is my first year.”
What part of teaching PE do you find most enjoyable?
“Being outside with the kids working on athletics. One important aspect of PE is that it’s really one of the only times where kids aren’t using their screens. [They’re] used in class, when you get home, and when you do homework. PE is great because kids are focusing on people around them, helping their bodies, and moving.”
Angelo Goumenidis, Instructional Assistant
What part of your teaching persona are you most excited to develop throughout the years?
“[Teaching] because I’m kind of used to a one-on-one environment, and now that I’m in a bigger [community], it’s [difficult] to [give] clear instructions with multiple students. I [used to teach] at Lydian Academy. It was a one-on-one school where you don’t have your typical big classroom. It was more like one teacher to one student, and I taught math, science and a bit of PE.”
How’s your time at Aragon been so far?
“All the teachers and students are awesome. So far, I don’t have any complaints [because of] the nice environment. [Aragon’s] an awesome school – I’m excited for [what’s] to come. ”
Are there any parts of your identity that you believe can be used to connect with students?
“Being a part of a family that immigrated to the [U.S.], that’s a universal experience with a lot of students. [Lots] of families are from China, Africa, Europe [and] Mexico. [Having] been from an immigrant family [with] that experience is [something] students can learn from because it can be [difficult].”
Yahir Fonseca, Instructional Assistant
What made you want to help high school students specifically?
“After graduating high school, I had more connections at that level, and I got to know [Aragon football] Coach Ash Parham … he helped me get a job as a lacrosse coach. He continued helping me throughout my career at [Aragon]. I decided to give back as much as possible. High school kids [are] fun to work with because [they] let you see a little bit of yourself as a high schooler. I want to encourage them through school [while helping] them emotionally, academically [and] in any way possible.”
Is there a part of Aragon’s culture that stands out to you?
“Aragon’s culture is so welcoming. I transferred from Hillsdale after my junior year and graduated here as a senior. I was more welcomed here than any other school. It was easy to make friends [with] people [being] a lot nicer. The one thing I [try] my best to do as an IA is to always [give] positive reinforcement [and try] my best to uplift someone.”
What’s something you want people to know about you?
“I’m a nice guy. Period. I’m very smiley, love joking around, and [can relate] with interests between anyone. I’m very passionate about all sorts of sports, [and] I’m a big Bay Area sports fan. Sharks, Warriors, Niners, whatever. I’m just a big sports guy.”
