Mr. Gebur, a former math teacher at Park, left within the second week of the semester. Park immediately organized a long-term sub—Mr. Tin Mai. Park is still finding a long-term replacement in the math department.
Mai recently graduated with his bachelor’s. He hasn’t had much practice teaching but is excited as it is his first teaching gig.
“I just got my bachelor’s, so I plan on teaching for a while. This is going to be my very first teaching experience,” Mai said. “Pretty much the only thing I had before this was my necessary teaching with students in the fall semester.”
Sophomore Elvis King said he was surprised by how energetic and happy Mai was during his class but it is very relaxing to be in his class due to how he teaches.
“I was expecting a really quiet guy who teaches, who is technical with his teaching. It turns out he is a really fun dude who just likes to hang out, and his class feels euphoric to be in,” King said. “It is also really amazing to be in his class.”
Sophomore Abdi Malik said that Mai helps him reach his best ability, and he creates an enjoyable environment. He said he expects to achieve more this semester.
“(Mai) is nice. I like how enthusiastic he is. I feel like I’m going to do my best this semester because this teacher makes learning fun,” Malik said. “He also pushes me into learning more and getting better grades.”
Mai said he wants each student to give everything they have. He wants to see some personal growth and see some improvement in students’ attitudes toward their work.
“I expect everyone to give it their all, to give it their all just the rest of the semester,” Mai said. “I would love to see at least some sort of growth or change throughout the year. I’m hoping to see everybody succeed in my class.”
King said Mai helps students be themselves in his class, he is also able to help students perfect their skills in the class, as well as how he runs and keeps the classroom in check.
“Being in Mr. Mai’s class brings out the best in people. I’ve seen some students get the proper help they need,” King said. “It stays pleasing and is well maintained in the classroom.”
Malik said that during the test they had on Feb. 12, Mai was helpful with being able to explain questions that were difficult to understand.
“Mai has helped a lot on quizzes and tests. The first test we took today, Mr. Mai helped me understand all the questions that I didn’t fully comprehend,” Malik said. “I like how he carries himself and the feeling he brings to the class.”
