Please tell us about yourself.
I have been teaching at St. Charles Borromeo in Greenville for nearly two years. In our middle school I teach social studies, science and religion for grades 6-8. In addition, I also teach an after-school geography club and French club.
Prior to coming to St. Charles, I completed my student teaching at All Saints Academy in Grand Rapids, under the knowledgeable tutelage of Mr. Tim Matlak.
I did not enter the teaching profession on the traditional path. I graduated from Aquinas College in 2008 with a Bachelor of Science in geography and French. Initially I intended to pursue graduate school for geography, but in the short-term I began working as a substitute teacher for Grand Rapids Public Schools. Working with young people as a long-term sub and literacy interventionist at Sibley Elementary, I felt called by God to realize my true vocation: education.
Inspired by some wonderful mentors at Sibley, I returned to Aquinas College in the spring of 2013 to begin my Master in Education coursework. It was revelatory, and I felt (and continue to feel everyday) that I have heard God's call to serve others as a dedicated teacher.
My wife, Marian, and I live in Grand Rapids and are parishioners of the Basilica of St. Adalbert. We are expecting our first child this July.
Describe your school.
St. Charles Borromeo is a school dedicated to the Gospel of Christ. Our students are fantastic models of respect, academic dedication, and service to others. As a middle school teacher, I have the privilege of spending my days with 42 critically-thinking young people engaged in learning all they can in pursuit of academic success and Christ-like social development. The dedicated teachers of all grade levels and support services demonstrate impressive creativity and compassion as Catholic educators, led by our fabulous principal, Mrs. Margaret Karpus.
They support the academic, spiritual, and personal growth of the entire person. They are welcoming to all, and demonstrate Christ's love in myriad ways in the communities of which they are an integral component.
What drew you to teaching at a Catholic school?
I attended Catholic grade school, Catholic high school (Flint Powers Catholic), Catholic college, and Catholic graduate school. In some small way I wanted to be a part of the faith-filled academic landscape that prepared me through all of my years; I want to be there for this generation of young people and support their growth as informed, critically-thinking disciples of Christ.
What is your favorite part about teaching? What are your greatest rewards?
The people. From the students' creativity to the dedication of my educational colleagues, to the spiritual guidance of our clergy, I am at home in my Catholic school classroom.
In your experience, what do Catholic schools do best? What does your school do best?
Catholic schools provide academic excellence and modalities to make informed decisions about the world around us. Society is fast-paced and all too often focused on inane distractions. In a Catholic school setting, students/staff from all faith backgrounds are provided safe, nurturing opportunities to grow in faith, academics, and service to others. What more could we want for our young people?
From the Principal:
Mr. Willing is a true professional and role model for his middle school students. His love of history and geography has excited the students since his arrival at St. Charles. Mr. Willing also teaches science and theology and does an exemplary job in all areas!
To learn more about St. Charles Borromeo, click here.