Years of teaching students, laughing with them, and truly making his students the center of his career in education, Mr. Nieves is ready to close this chapter of his life. Mr. Nieves has always been dedicated not only to providing his students with a strong education, but also building meaningful connections.
Thirty years have passed since Mr. Nieves first began his teaching career, teaching thousands of students over the course of his career. Yet, if there is one thing he hopes remains unforgettable, it is the laughter that constantly radiates from his classroom. He has stated how it has been an absolute joy being a teacher. Especially in being able to see his students, who were like his own kids, happy in a classroom setting.
Mr. Nieves has witnessed tremendous changes in the field of education. Just having started out teaching, technology didn’t play a role in the classroom the way it does today. It wasn’t until nearly 10 years into teaching, that a device called the ‘sidekick’ came out and began changing classrooms, as well as teacher’s lives. Mr. Nieves reflected on how the constantly changing technology was one of the greatest hurdles he had to face. In addition to making everyone in his classroom content was another challenge he had to face. As he humorously put it, “you give them too much work, they complain. You don’t give them any work, they complain”.
Teaching Spanish for so many decades, Mr. Nieves has established a relationship with a diverse community here at Sewanhaka, meeting the students where they are, and always being able to lend a hand. As one of his students explained, “he’s so chill, he gives work but not too much, and he’s super understanding. His class feels comfortable and you can honestly talk to him about anything”.
As Mr. Nieves leaves Sewanhaka, he not only leaves behind decades of memories, but also leaves his wisdom for the next generation of teachers: His advice, “Nothing solves a problem like a weekend, number one. And number two, don’t be part of the chaos”.
Additionally, Mr.Nieves detailed the importance of having a good mentor. A good boss is someone you never want to disappoint, and someone who inspires you to be better.
Mr. Nieves also mentioned that he hopes when any of his past or current students think of him, they put a smile on their face. Ask any student about Mr. Nieves, and they are no doubt going to smile.
Sewanhaka High School will miss Mr. Nieves, his impression on teachers and students is one built on laughter, positivity, and love. Although it’s sad to see a beloved teacher leave our school, Mr. Nieves earned his retirement and to be able to enjoy it to the fullest extent!
