Chatting over lunch. Friday night football. Rehearsing for the fall play. Playing a sport. Hanging out with friends. Joining a club. Living life. Having fun. There is more to school than simply being an academic entity.
As the new Assistant Principal of Student Life and Activities, Mr. Levin hopes to create a high school experience that students can enjoy fully. Academics are crucial, but catering to students’ interests through clubs, activities, and engagement is just as important.
After serving as a St. Viator history teacher, Mr. Levin made the switch to administration this year. He has described the shift as being not without challenges but an overall exciting and refreshing experience. His original ties to the community have aided him greatly.
“Coming from the classroom has allowed me to maintain and develop existing relationships,” said Mr. Eric Levin. “It makes the transition easier!”
Mr. Levin expressed that one of the most exciting aspects of this position is the chance to make a broader impact on students. The impact made in the classroom is profound, but this position offers an opportunity to reach everyone.
Rebuilding and restoring high school spirit after COVID has been an extensive but necessary process. Students are often caught up in the stress-inducing academic life and forget to enjoy themselves and find balance.
“After going to school and doing all my homework, I’m exhausted,” Junior Lucy Jochaniewicz said. “Fun seems out of the question.”
Mr. Levin hopes to change that. He wants to provide fun, easy ways for students to be involved. Engaging others and providing something for everyone is his goal.
“I want high school to be memorable; students should be able to enjoy their experience wholly,” Levin said.
Speaking on specifics, Mr. Levin is anticipating implementing a variety of clubs and activities that spark the interest of many. In terms of clubs, Morgan’s Message and MedEd are currently in the works. Morgan’s Message will focus on mental health awareness within the community. MedEd will focus on students’ interest in the medical field. The hope is to provide them with alumni connections that serve as guides and role models.
Additionally, as an event that caters to all, Mr. Levin hopes to organize student-faculty games during Friday night football halftimes.
Mr. Levin’s hope is that these implementations last. They should become activities and traditions that students can look forward to year after year – traditions that make high school memorable once again.