Mr. Howery started teaching in 2017. It all started with a love of criminal law which led him to teaching and a love of Baseball, which took him here to St. John Neumann.
Q: How did you choose this career path and how did you come to Neumann?
I have had many careers, most including baseball. I transitioned here last year to be an assistant coach to get my foot in the door. I used to teach criminal justice because law pertains to everyday life. I slowly moved into more resource roles over at Bonita, helping students to keep on task, address attendance issues and grade issues, and to just figure out life. I realized there that many students don’t have a support system at home, and no one monitoring them. For some students, I was able to be that person for them, showing them there is someone who cares. That’s pretty much my goal and it’s been a great transition here.
Q: What is your definition of ESE for Athletes?
Well, learning strategies is a better name for it. We are giving students, both athletes and non-athletes, two classes of it. I’m mostly in charge of athletes who are struggling, but right now the classes are comprised of all students new to St. John Neumann. We want to help them and give them resources for new styles of learning and studying. There are many changes of expectations here, so we help them learn study habits, due dates, and organizational skills.
Q: Did you initially want to pursue this type of career?
“No. Originally I went to school for criminal justice, so I was more interested in law enforcement or legal careers. I started coaching baseball again, umpiring, and college baseball. My love of baseball got me back and helped me realize I could use my degrees to get a teaching license.
Q: Would you recommend every student take ESE?
I think it just depends. Not everyone really needs it. Some students come in with a really good base of organization and understanding of when things are due and time management. Some people are focused more on athletics and learn quickly that they can’t only do athletics in high school. If they find themselves struggling with that, it really depends, and I do think people would benefit.
Q: What type of results do the students taking this class see?
Overall they show good results and they go to tutoring when they are supposed to. I have made connections with the coaches, and the athletes know the expectations. I think in a short amount of time I’ve made good connections with teachers to help get students to where they need to be.
Q: How has your experience teaching ESE for athletes been?
Just to get to know the students and their personalities and get a feel for the class dynamic. As well as learn their strengths and weaknesses. Overall, I would say it has been really good so far.
Q: What motivates you?
The success of the students and seeing them improve. To see them getting something out of the class.
Q: What would you say is the best part of your job?
The best Part of my job is that I get to interact with most of the athletes, but all students in and out of class. Just walking around in between classes, talking to their coaches, getting to see everyone at games. Seeing everyone participate and having fun in the stands.
Howey is an amazing addition to St. John Neumann, and works hard every day to ensure student success. Every day students can see Howery’s passion, enthusiasm, and caring attitude through his love of baseball, coaching, and teaching. We are very thankful to have Mr. Howery here at St. John Neumann.
