Tom Baumgartner, Waubonsie Valley High School
Tom Baumgartner, 27, teaches at Waubonsie Valley High School and is in his fifth year of teaching. He has lived in Aurora for 17 years.
Education: Benedictine University, social science, secondary education.
Inspiration for becoming a teacher? "My mom, Mavis DeMar; my aunt, Merle Kulinski; and my uncle, Mark McDonald.
Naperville's schools are known for their high level of achievement. We want to tell readers more about why that is. We bet it has a lot to do with great teachers whose passion is helping students learn to be successful. Tell us about a teacher who made a difference in your life. We'd like to feature the best in The Sun's Teacher Feature.
Nominate teachers by e-mailing nominations to thesun@scn1.com. Make sure to include the teachers' name, school they work for, contact information and why you think they should be featured. We look forward to learning more about why Naperville is such a great place to educate kids!
Favorite moment as a teacher? "Graduation every year! It never gets old. Especially my first full year teaching and it ending with graduation where I got to see my brother cross the stage as a member of the staff."
Best piece of life advice you have for students? "Live every day as if it is your last, and never give up on your dreams."
Favorite topic to teach and why? "U.S. History. It has so much relevance to the structure of our country today and has some impact on everyone in the class."
Interesting project you have students do each year? "Ultimate Road Trip Project for U.S. Geography."
