Congratulations to Mike Rosendin the April 2018 Educator of the Month from San Joaquin County Office of Education County Operated Schools and Programs. Mike has served the SJCOE's Alternative Education one.Program for twenty-five years! This includes eight years as a teacher, five years as an Insight instructor, and 12 years as a counselor. Here is what Mike has to say about his experience as an educator:
Why did you choose a career in education?
I first entered into the education field because I wanted to be a coach. I ran cross country and track in both high school and college. I also played soccer all four years of high school. So, I thought the best way to stay involved in athletics was to be a high school coach and history teacher. In addition to my duties with the one.Program, I’m the head cross country coach and assistant track coach at Sierra High School.
What do you love about teaching?
I most enjoy seeing young people catch on to what their true potential is. That is when they realize that through hard work and positive choices they can truly make a good life for themselves. When this happens, it is a joy to witness.
What is the best thing that has happened at one of your schools in the past month?
We have great things happen at our school daily, but I have really enjoyed seeing a record number of students graduate from our Lathrop site this year. Just in the last month we have had close to 10 students present their Graduation by Explorations and walk out of the building feeling proud of themselves for earning their diplomas.
Who was your favorite teacher as a child? Why?
My most impactful teachers were and are my parents Hector and Judy Rosendin. Along with them I was fortunate to have some great teachers and coaches. The ones that really made an impact on me were the ones that challenged me to be better than I thought I was at the time. These include Bob Baker who taught and coached me at Lincoln JR. High and Manteca High School and Merv Smith who taught and coached me at Delta College.