Fountain Valley High School has 
a new addition to the English department this school year. Mr. Patton, a former substitute for Ms. Zeigler, is excited to be joining a wonderful team of teachers.
How was it as a substitute? How is it as a teacher?
I enjoyed being a substitute and it certainly was a great learning experience for me. It gave me the chance to see different classrooms, grade levels, subjects, procedures, and lesson ideas; I’ve been able to use and learn from many things I saw during my time as a sub in my classes now. And, because I was around FVHS so much last year, I was able to meet and get to know many students and faculty, which makes it nice to see familiar faces around campus. It feels great to be a “real” teacher now. Makes you feel like your work and dedication has paid off, and I’m grateful to be here with such amazing students and supportive faculty. Looking back, the moment when my first student walked in the door and showed me his schedule with my name on it was an exciting one.
What made you want to become a teacher?
As many of you students will come to find out, you learn a lot about yourself during your college years. You learn what you value, what makes you happy, what irritates you, what motivates you, what gets you out of bed in the morning, and an infinite amount more. For me, teaching was always a profession I considered but had not made up my mind on. After college, as I was deciding what career path to take, I had to consider all of these things I had come to learn about myself. I think it’s important to do something you’re proud of, that makes you happy, and, for me, something that gives you sense of accomplishment. Being a teacher does these things for me.
Why English of all subjects?
English was always my favorite subject in school since the time I can remember. I’ve had great English teachers along the way who gave me an appreciation for great literature and helped me find my own writing style; I’d like to do the same for my students. And, hopefully, breathe some life into a subject that (let’s face it) many students find archaic and irrelevant to their own lives. I’d like to help my students become critical readers who can make connections between the things we read and our world today.
What’s the most gratifying moment you’ve had so far as a teacher?
I like the little moments that surprise me. The moments that catch me off guard, like the time when a normally quiet, reserved student beat-boxed for the class. It’s gratifying to see a student come out of his or her shell. Or the time two students had a battle-rap between Napoleon and Snowball from Animal Farm. Or simple things like seeing a student walking through the Bowl and getting a “Hey Mr. Patton, how are you?” from a student I had while I substituted.
What is your goal by the end of the year for your students?
For my seniors, to graduate and move on to a college or career. I’d like their senior year to be memorable and enjoyable while still being productive. I have a great group and I’m looking forward to the rest of the year.
For my English learners, to improve their confidence in their language abilities and get them feel more involved in the FVHS community.
And for my freshmen, to give them a solid foundation as readers and writers so that they can be successful for the rest of their time in high school. Also, to teach them how to write their name on assignments they turn in without being told to do so.
If you could be any superhero, which would you be?
Ssshhhh, I can’t talk about it. Where do you think I go after 5th period?
