Walking into a school, most expect to see either teachers or students, but five people in the school are currently both.
Trevor Burnett can be found in the art hallway. He is working towards his goal of becoming a teacher under the direction of Tanya Lockwood and Trisha Erickson.
Burnett currently teaches Photography, Drawing, and Introduction to Art.
From attending Grand Rapids Community College, the Art Institute of Tampa, and Grand Valley State University, Burnett is very familiar with schools.
His hobbies include cinematography, painting, drawing, cooking, and spending time with his daughter and wife. He also likes to hunt for new music.
Burnett is passionate about being creative and inspiring others to be creative, as well. He advises students to follow their dreams and to live life as best as they can.
“Follow your dreams, even though it sounds cheesy, don’t worry too much about your future. Sometimes you can only learn through trial and error,” Burnett said.
Alexandra Palmitier loves science, which is why she spends her time in the science halls. She teaches Biology and Advanced Biology under the instruction of Mark Baker.
Hailing from Michigan State University, Palmitier is passionate about sharks, dinosaurs, succulents, and making a difference in her students’ lives.
Her hobbies include reading, watching movies, hiking, spending time with friends and family, and researching her favorite animal: sharks. She advises students to find their passion in life and run with it.
“Don’t let other people’s opinions bring you down or hinder your passion, you are capable of achieving great things,” Palmitier said.
When Alex Valigura comes to school every day, he heads straight for the band room. He teaches Concert Band, Jazz Band, and Guitar.
Under the instruction of Greg Wells, this Michigan State University student is pursuing his dream of someday having his own classroom.
His hobbies include yoga, hiking, bowling, and playing jazz trombone. His interests don’t end here, however.
“I actually have a minor in environmental science,” Valigura said.
His advice for students is that college is not for everyone. He also reminds students that if they do go to college to remember to enjoy the experience and not just focus on academics.
At the end of the English hallway, students can find Abigail Bird. A Central Michigan student on the road to becoming an English teacher, learning under the instruction of her mentor teacher: Sarah Pitt.
Her hobbies include theater, reading, baking, and spending time with friends. Bird is passionate about teaching and getting kids to like books.
She advises students to really work hard in school and not to assume that their teachers want to make life more difficult for them.
“Do the work, do your best, and ask for help if you need it. Teachers want you to succeed,” Bird said.
