I got the chance to sit down with Mr. Whitaker, one of our history teachers at YMLA, and learn more about his life, career, and interests. 

Mr. Whitaker grew up mostly in Japan and Italy, where he says he had a great childhood with no real problems. Later, he attended W.E. Boswell High School, which he remembers as a really fun experience. 

When asked about why he teaches history, he admitted that he never really planned on being a teacher. “I always liked history,” he said, “but I actually wanted to be a doctor, a child psychologist.” Life took a different turn, and eventually Mr. White invited him to come teach at YMLA. 

His first year here wasn’t easy he described it as stressful but things improved as he found his rhythm in the classroom. One of his biggest strengths as a teacher is keeping students engaged and making them want to come to school. He credits Mr. White as the staff member who has impacted him the most, giving him a new mindset. 

Outside of school, Mr. Whitaker enjoys coaching basketball and baseball. His very first job was working for his dad in a restaurant, where he did cleaning and maintenance. He later attended Michigan, TCU, and the University of North Texas. Even his ringtone connects back to college it’s from the school he attended and still loves. 

Looking ahead, Mr. Whitaker says he might go into real estate after YMLA, and if he weren’t teaching, he could see himself working in the restaurant or hotel business. For now, though, he’s here, making history class something students actually want to show up for.