As both a teacher and a coach, Jim Tisel has worked with students in the classroom, on the basketball court, and on the golf course. Most recently Tisel taught US physics and coached boys basketball and girls golf, though he has also spent a decade teaching in the Middle School during his eleven years at SPA.
“Watching students successfully identify their unknown [solutions] during the [eighth grade] sludge investigation has been inspiring,” Tisel said. “I’ve really enjoyed watching seniors tackle their end of year investigations [in physics class]. It has been rewarding to chart their growth from eighth grade to twelfth grade.”
Tisel also recounts events from athletic seasons as significant moments for him as a coach. “It’s a magical moment when players can suddenly learn a golf shot or a how a jump shot in basketball. Suddenly they’ve mastered a physical skill,” Tisel said.
As he departs from teaching at SPA Tisel will miss the positive environment. “[I’ll miss] the enthusiasm of the students and the wonderful connections with teaching colleagues,” he said.
In both academics and athletics, Tisel treasures the moments when students overcome adversity to become a stronger student or athlete. Tisel has enjoyed the opportunity to help and watch students challenge their barriers on the court, on the course, and in the classroom.