In the bustling halls of Bergen Arts and Science Charter High School, Mr. Christopher Mileo is more than just a Social Studies Teacher.
He is the Activities Coordinator, the brain behind the Italian Exchange Program, and the engine driving the Pathway to College Program (PTC). We sat down for an insightful chat with this educator-extraordinaire, uncovering his wisdom and passion for teaching.
When asked for his best teaching tip, Mr. Mileo’s response is refreshingly simple: authenticity. “Be real. Be yourself,” he urges.
He emphasizes the significance of genuine connections with students, emphasizing that students recognize when teachers are authentic, fostering an environment where students can be their best selves.
“Be real. Be yourself,” he urges.
Teaching is not without its challenges, and Mr. Mileo candidly shares his: time management. Juggling countless tasks can be overwhelming, but his secret weapon? To-do lists.
“Daily, Weekly, Monthly,” he explains. “Triage what needs to be done and what can wait.” A structured approach helps him navigate the whirlwind of tasks with finesse.
Yet, amidst these challenges, the heart of Mr. Mileo’s teaching lies in his students. “The students, it’s that simple,” he states.
His eyes light up as he reminisces about the deep connections forged over nine years. He recounts an encounter with a freshman whose older brother he had taught years ago. The joy in Mr. Mileo’s voice is palpable as he recalls the heartfelt moment, illustrating the profound impact teachers can have on generations of students.
While Mr. Mileo thrives on the bonds he forms in the classroom, his fondest memories extend beyond borders. Traveling to Italy, Tanzania, and soon Kenya with his students, he explores diverse cultures, cuisines, and history, weaving experiential learning into the fabric of his teachings.
Beyond the classroom, Mr. Mileo reveals a surprising truth: he was a terrible high school student. It’s a revelation that shapes his understanding of student struggles and enriches his classroom management skills.
”For new teachers stepping into this noble profession, Mr. Mileo offers heartfelt advice: “YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE.”
For new teachers stepping into this noble profession, Mr. Mileo offers heartfelt advice: “YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE.” Despite the challenges, he emphasizes the profound impact teachers have on young minds, urging them to remember their transformative power.
