With so many new teachers coming from all over, it is important we learn a little about every one of them.

Joesph Patti grew up in Seattle, Washington, and now lives locally with his four children and wife.

Patti has been teaching for eight years now. This year at Lakeland High School, he is teaching English, but in previous years, he has taught Social Sciences such as history and government, Theology, and Philosophy.

He describes his teaching style as interactive. 

Interacting with students can help motivate them to learn. That is where Patti’s teaching style is a little bit more fun.

“I ask a lot of questions to help my students connect the stories we read to truths about the human person and their values concerning the purpose of life on this earth,” Patti said.

Teachers enjoy it when their students are engaged and excited about learning something new. When teachers show that they are willing to do whatever to make the learning experience the best it can be.

When students have a teacher or coach who impacts them to do great things, it inspires them to try their best. 

“I had a terrific high school history teacher who was also my cross country coach in high school, and I wanted to follow his path because I love history and government,” Patti said.

As a fun hobby, he enjoys distance running and hiking.

Something that a lot of people look at is how someone dresses. One of Pattis’ students, Decklan Spanko, noticed how he always looks very professional and well-dressed every day.

Decklan Spanko said that he notices Patti always wears a nice suit and tie outfit except for Fridays. 

“Something that I thought was interesting was that he is always dressed very nicely. The only days he doesn’t wear a suit and tie fit is on Fridays, but even then, he looks put together,” Spanko said.

Patti is very grateful to be a part of Lakeland and to be working with wonderful colleagues.