This year, our community has welcomed several new faces. One of our own has joined this year, Mr. Carens, a new history teacher and football coach. Although this is his first full-time teaching position, Mr. Carens has already made a strong impression on both students and staff.
Mr. Carens graduated from the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign and completed his student teaching at Centennial High School. While he didn’t always know he wanted to teach, his interest in education grew during his time as a student at Viator.
“I really enjoyed my social studies classes here,” said Carens. “Before that, school just felt like work to me, but those classes made me want to study history in college.”
When asked what made him choose teaching, he explained that sharing his enthusiasm for history and helping students discover their own passions keeps him motivated. His favorite part of teaching so far has been getting to know the students better.
“Getting to know everyone and learning what they’re passionate about is super rewarding,” said Samuel Carens.
Returning to Viator as a teacher instead of a student has been both comfortable and interesting according to Carens.
“It’s strange having my old teachers as peers, but it’s also great not having to learn all new faces,” said Carens. “I had good relationships with my teachers, so it’s been nice to come back.”
Mr. Carens has also noticed how much Viator has changed since his time here, especially since he went to school during Covid; he’s glad the school bounced back.
“The biggest difference is Lion Block and the way it allows for more student engagement,” said Carens. “I’m excited about that.”
Outside the classroom, Mr. Carens is a dedicated Green Bay Packers fan who enjoys coaching football and staying involved in school activities.
When asked what advice he would give to current students, he shared, “Be curious; people often see school as stressful, but don’t forget to ask questions.”