Mark Thrall is a beloved teacher and has been here since 1999. However, the first place he worked as a teacher was his former high school.
“I came to Northview for several reasons. First, I was engaged and wanted to move closer to my fiance. Second, I loved Grand Rapids, having gone to GVSU for my bachelors degree and wanted to get back here. Third, I substitute taught at Northview a few times right after I graduated from GVSU and thought the district and students were awesome.”
Thrall attended Bronson junior and senior high school ,south of Battle Creek and got his bachelor’s degree at Grand Valley State University, where he would discover his passion for teaching.
“I wasn’t sure at first, ” Thrall said. “At first I thought I wanted to go into journalism and then I looked into politics and social work and after looking at all those I can come to the conclusion that teaching is the best place for me.”
Not only is Thrall a history teacher but he also has a minor in English and also teaches speech and debate.
“Every year the National Forensics League picks a topic for high school students around the nation to debate. This year’s topic was on protection of water resources in the United States.”
There are many pros that go along with being a teacher but the most important to Mr. Thrall is the impact teaching has on students.
“He’s the first history teacher that I’ve actually understood. He’s really nice and always asking if you need help”. Said Savannah Slage, a student Mr. Thrall had last semester.
Thrall recognizes this lasting impression he has on students and he values his connections he is able to make each year with them.
“My greatest achievement from teaching and coaching has been being allowed to be a positive influence on young people. So many young adults at this school move on to do incredible things in life. I’d like to think I helped some of them along the way.”