James Logan High School is built upon the people who are in it, and this year we’re excited to welcome some new faces into our community. We all start somewhere. For these individuals, it’s starting at James Logan. Their jobs aren’t known for being the easiest, but they stay for the passion for service and setting a positive impact for students of all ages.
Starting from closest to farthest from the front entrance is Mr. Rodriguez, one of the many counselors at our school. “Logan is a very diverse environment which creates a space for everyone and gives students a sense of belonging,” said Mr.Rodriguez. Expressing how he feels about the Logan community for students but also for the Logan staff. “So far, my first year at Logan has been a mix between calm but also belonging. In some instances, I’m like, “I need a coffee now”. Mr. Rodriguez said but loves how Logan makes people feel welcome and cared for.
New to Logan’s Art Department, we would love to introduce Mr. Normoyle, one of the three fantastic inspirations for our school’s young aspiring artists. Located in room 84, he teaches painting, advanced painting, drawing, and ceramics for grades nine through twelve. “I enjoyed all my art classes in high school, and I’m definitely excited to try and share that fun that I had as a student with my students now,” said Mr. Normoyle. He expresses his delight of being able to share his passion with other individuals to hopefully inspire them for the future to keep pursuing their creative side.
Located in room 234 and in her office in the hallways, both new to Logan and from a program rarely discussed, is Ms. Valencia. Teaching the program study skills to grades nine through twelve, the program challenges students to plan how they can become successful in both personal and educational life. “I think there’s something for everybody here. And I really like that about this place. I think that’s a part of the reason why it’s so special.” Ms. Valencia explains, showing how Logan holds every opportunity for anyone regardless of their ability. Also, a big shoutout to their colleagues in the resource team Mr. Parto, Mr. Rogers, Miss Anderson, and Miss Moreno for giving support.
As we exit the hallways and move our way up the stairs to the second floor of the 500’s, we meet Mr. Anderson. Formerly in the navy, who is always seen greeting students walking in or passing by with a friendly smile and a wave. He teaches a mix of freshmen, sophomores, and juniors for Algebra 1 and Geometry. Like many of our teachers on campus, he came here as a student and was later inspired by his calculus teacher Mr. Bombach. “…he kind of is the one that I was the first time I sat in a classroom thinking, well, maybe I could do that as a career.¨ he said.
Newly joining the English department at Logan is Ms. Zhang. One of the many new teachers at James Logan. She teaches Sophomore English 2 and Senior World Lit..Hearing different backgrounds of students makes a class more fun,” said Ms.Zhang, revealing what she enjoys most about her classes and teaching at James Logan. “I like to see students progress and seeing students progress is really fulfilling,” Zhang said.
Our last stop is in the 400’s portables, a teacher known for his humor and occasional storytelling is Mr. Geck, teaching world history and US history to both sophomores and juniors in room 455 located in the portables. He sees every day as a new day for him to teach and entertain his students, always supporting and socializing with them whenever they need him. “…the students are great..And maybe I’m just lucky, so hopefully I’m not jinxing myself,” Geck said. Energizing students every day during class with sweet treats or with his funny jokes, Geck reciprocates the joy and respect given from the students to him.
All of Logan’s staff are working hard, to the best of their ability, to inspire and bring out the best for the futures of students. Working with current and new teachers or staff members to support one another to be an inspiration to students and a friend.
