It takes kids years or decades to figure out what they want to be when they grow up. But not for English teacher, Spencer Woods. Woods has known what his dream job is since the 8th grade, so he did everything he could to pursue his dream.

  For Woods, it all started in the 7th grade at career day. Woods’ future job was to be president. At career day, Woods had his desk, name tag, and a American flag all set up at his booth. Within a year his decision about being president was substituted.

  “In 8th grade at career day, I had the same suit, same desk, except my name tag said Mr. Woods instead of President Woods, because that’s when I knew I wanted to be a teacher,” said Woods. Teachers like Mike Buckley and Jeff Harrison influenced Woods. But one special teacher inspired and amazed Woods to become a teacher, and that was sister Marie Dolorosa.

  “Just an incredibly inspiring women. Just one of the smartest people I’ve ever met in my life,” Woods said. Woods would learn and pick up some of Dolorosa’s teaching tactics.

  Later in Woods life he got his degree at the University of Denver and has been teaching for 21 years. Not only did he love teaching, but what he loved more was seeing kids learn.

  Woods said, “Just to see that little light bulb above their heads go off and to see that ‘aha’ moment amazes me.” Woods hopes to continue his passion for a long time, and hopes to influence others around him.

  “Mr. Woods is a really good teacher. He’s really tough when it comes to grading and he has really high expectations of all students, which has made me become a better English student because of it,” said Freshman, Maddie Crea.

Natalie Alvarado, Guest Reporter