K-8 PE Teacher
John has been teaching P.E at Sussex since 1997. Growing up in Michigan, but spending summers in Montana, it was an easy decision for him to attend the University of Montana and study Elementary Education and health and Human Performance. A self proclaimed fun hog, John guides fly fishing trips in the summer and when not teaching he can be found playing tennis, ultimate Frisbee, hockey, skiing or anything else that does not require him to sit still. John’s family includes his wife Tracy, his two boys Henry and Christopher, and their black lab Rosie who all keep him sane and give him passion.
What is your position at Sussex? I am the Resource Teacher. I teach physical education and outdoor education.
Briefly describe your teaching background. This is my eighth year teaching grades K-8 at Sussex.
What is your teaching philosophy? A safe and comprehensive physical education program based on the multi-activity-model is essential for the development of all students. Young people today are entitled to a safe and accepting environment where their physical needs are addressed, and they are given the opportunity to take physical chances as they grow and mature.
Is there anyone in particular who has inspired you as a teacher? Andrea Onken supervised me when I was a student teacher. I found her leadership valuable and inspiring.
What was your most rewarding experience as a teacher? On two occasions the eighth grade class has asked me to be their graduation speaker. These experiences were very rewarding for me, because at Sussex the eighth grade class is allowed to choose their own graduation speakers.
What do you love most about teaching? The enthusiasm the students have toward being active in my class is what I love most about teaching.
What do you like to do when you are not teaching? I enjoy participating in many outdoor activities with my wife Tracy, and our two boys, Henry and Christopher. I especially enjoy taking advantage of the many recreational opportunities that exist here in Missoula.
Who is the person you admire most in the world? The person I admire most in the world is my wife Tracy.
“Young people today are entitled to a safe and accepting environment where their physical needs are addressed, and they are given the opportunity to take physical chances as they grow and mature.”
- John Ledyard, Physical Education and Outdoor Education