Buckhannon-Upshur High School Mathematics Teacher Michael Wilson said educating is not just teaching the classroom subject matter. Instead, he believes it begins with understanding the role each student has in contributing to life and what is best for them.
“I love watching young people grow to see his or her potential develop. My favorite aspect of what I do in my teaching profession is seeing the light bulb come on when exploring and challenging oneself with something not thought of before. The growth that is established with each new adventure, even through adversity, presents a feeling of importance and accomplishment in each individual.”
Mr. Wilson began teaching in 1978 in Harrison County and since then has taught at Faith Christian Academy, Salem Junior High, Lincoln High School, and now at Buckhannon-Upshur High School in Upshur County. He said his experience over the last 40 years has taught him how to use the resources that are best for each student to grow and develop into productive human beings.
“I continually assess by redirecting and evaluating the purpose of why we do what we do. Caring about the individual opens the door for each student to develop and grow. West Virginians have a sense of community that makes collaborating and teaching a unique experience for all students and teachers.”
In addition to being a math teacher, Mr. Wilson also serves as the high school’s student council advisor and senior class advisor. Through these roles, he is quite often the one caring adult in his students’ lives.
“I had a student that had family situations that were making it a challenge to learn and grow as a student and person. I was able to develop a relationship where both avenues, personal and academic, produced growth and healing. We were able to create a safe learning environment and a trust to where the bitterness faded away. I watched this individual graduate, and I was asked to present his diploma to him.”
Earlier this year, Mr. Wilson was named Upshur County Schools’ 2021 Teacher of the Year. He said he was in shock when he learned the news, mostly because he felt he was just doing his job. He was also named the Senior High School Student Council Advisor of the Year for the West Virginia Association of Student Councils.
When Mr. Wilson isn’t busy teaching or honing his craft as an educator, he spends time with his wife Terri, and daughter, Addie. His hobbies include singing, playing piano, and bodybuilding.