From midterms to holidays, late fall and early winter can be one of the most overwhelming times of the school year for students and teachers alike. Despite this preexisting burden, WPHS math teacher Mr. Miller gallantly accepted the challenge of sponsoring the Holiday Caroling Club in the midst of this busy time, giving up his spare time to mentor club members, organize sheet music, blast Christmas music, and carol in the hallways before winter break– all for nothing but the experience in return. However, any student who’s had Mr. Miller would not find this fact surprising, as he has built a reputation for reliability and kindness throughout his 25 years of teaching at WPHS.
Despite only operating as a functioning club from October to December, the Holiday Caroling Club quickly became a part of over 30 students’ activity period rotation, with slots filling to capacity nearly every meeting. This would not have been possible without Mr. Miller’s complete dedication to giving students the best experience possible in a short span of time.
“My favorite part of hosting the club is watching how much fun the students are having singing the carols,” said Mr. Miller.
Founding Holiday Caroling Club member Emily Ross is one of the many club members who have been exposed to the greatness made possible by Mr. Miller. However, she is no stranger to Miller’s compassionate and encouraging attitude, having been a student in Mr. Miller’s DG since her freshman year. Ross is now a senior, and will always remember her time in the club and homeroom fondly due to the positive classroom atmosphere.
“Mr. Miller helped my transition to high school by being supportive and encouraging. He is always there to make jokes and give us advice,” said Ross. “My favorite part of the Holiday Caroling Club was singing with my friends and Mr. Miller.”
Clubs aside, Miller’s impact makes it evident that empathetic educators make a major difference in the lives of students. High school is often full of drama, stress, and burden – teachers like Miller provide students with a safe space to be themselves without fear of being judged.
“What I hope students take away from my classes and the club is to learn something new every day, treat others with respect, and give back to others when you can,” said Miller.
It is clear that Miller’s hopes have become reality for many students. Senior Nathan Cha is a former algebra student of Miller’s, and remembers his time in Miller’s class fondly.
“Having kind and positive educators helps students interact with the whole class, allowing everyone to participate,” said Cha.
Miller has this effect on each of his students – take his DG class, which has developed a family-like bond throughout the past 4 years. Be it helping with homework, writing recommendation letters for college and scholarship applications, or bringing in donuts to celebrate his students’ victories in speech and debate or sports, Miller has always gone the extra mile to ensure the well-being of his students. Senior Emily Ross elaborates on the importance of having supportive teachers throughout high school.
“Kind and positive educators are the biggest motivators,” said Ross. “They influence me to do my best and make me want to do great, not only for myself, but for them.”
Though school years come and go, the positive impact of mentors like Mr. Miller lasts forever.
“The most rewarding aspect of teaching is when former students come back and tell me about their successes,” said Miller.
Miller’s dedication to giving his students the best high school experience possible does not go unnoticed. Educators who lead with empathy are the building blocks to success post-graduation. Be sure to thank the mentors in your life who have left as much of an impact on you as Mr. Miller has on the WP community.
