THE RETURN OF THE EYE

Staff Spotlight: Mr. Hanlon

Mathematics Teacher

By: Morgan Blechschmid and Chloe Rojak

October 21, 2021

Mr. Tim Hanlon is a mathematics teacher and coach here at Brooklyn High School. Hanlon is in year 23 of his teaching career that started with computers and math; now, he teaches all math to multiple grade levels. He is also a coach and has been for most of his professional career. He has coached football, softball, and baseball. Hanlon is currently coaching middle school football and will be coaching baseball as a varsity assistant this spring.

Q: Where did you grow up?

A: “I grew up in East Cleveland, Mentor, and North Royalton.”

Q: What is your favorite part about being a teacher?

A: “Each day is different and brings its own challenges.”

Q: What advice would you give to a student who is struggling with math?

A: “Ask questions to clarify and get help.”

Q: What is the most useful piece of information that math teachers relay to their students?

A: “How to organize their thoughts and how to think logically based on data.”

Q: Have you ever had any goals that you wanted to achieve in your lifetime?

A: “Goals change over time with one’s experiences and growth. I am happy to have my family, my career, and good friends.”

Q: What have you learned while being a coach?

A: “Challenge players in practice, so the game is physically and mentally easier.”

Q: What is your favorite sport to coach?

A: “Girls Fast-pitch Softball, Baseball, and Football are all my favorites.”

Q: What are some of your hobbies outside of school?

A: “Golfing, coaching, yardwork, attending performances at Playhouse Square, attending Indians games, and vacationing at Disney World.”

It is a pleasure having you here at Brooklyn High School, Mr. Hanlon. Thank you for being a mentor to so many students.

And The Winners Are…

By: Alaysia Curry and Daylun Armstrong

October 19, 2021

Friday, October 15 was a day that so many people were waiting for, the crowning of the Homecoming King and Queen. As the court lifted their Blue and Gold boxes, a gold balloon underneath two of the boxes would reveal the winners. This year’s BHS 2021 Homecoming King and Queen are Alex Hernandez and Gwen Spaliatsos!

The crowd cheered with excitement as the winners were crowned in the high school auditorium.

When asked about this moment, Queen Spaliatsos said, “I was ready to cry because it was a very happy moment in my life, and I was not expecting it at all.”

King Hernandez also felt so many overwhelming emotions when asked how he felt about winning: “It’s not everyday that you get a chance to win something like this. To even be able to be elected onto court and win the crown, I owe it to everyone who voted for me, so thank you to everyone who made it possible.”

After the crowning ceremony, King Hernandez, Queen Spaliatsos, and the remaining Homecoming Court followed the marching band in a parade to the football stadium where more celebrations were held.

To cap off a successful, Friday night Homecoming, the football team also won their game with many fans and alumni in the stands.

The Homecoming festivities ended last Saturday with the dance where so many fun experiences and memories were made.

If you are thinking about running for Homecoming court in the future, King Hernandez and Queen Spaliatsos have some advice for you.

Hernandez: “Just have fun with it. No matter what happens, win or lose, it’s such a fun time participating in everything.”

Spaliatsos: “Be yourself, and don’t try to be someone you’re not.”

Congratulations, Alex and Gwen!

Homecoming Victory!

By: Jaiden Basinger, Jose Nazario, and Tyler Elzholz

October 19, 2021

On Homecoming and Senior night, the varsity football team beat the John Hay Hornets, 14-6. The victory was great, but these victorious memories will last forever, especially for the seniors who played their last football game in front of the home crowd.

The seniors honored before the game were Jacob Sullivan, Tyler Elzholz, James Trunkett, Jordyn Fougerousse, Donavan Walker, Alex Hernandez, Andrew Flowers, Zach Hoskins, Dean Sugar, Jonathan Barry, and Solomon Carabello.

In the first quarter, the Hurricanes came out of the gate with intensity. Defensively, the Canes recorded an interception by Sullivan on the Hornets’ first drive. With the turnover, the Canes marched down the field and scored on a Sullivan to Fougerousse touchdown pass. Sullivan missed the PAT, but the Canes still led 6-0, and this is how the quarter ended with both teams struggling to sustain offensive drives.

In the second quarter, the Canes’ offense struggled with third and fourth down conversions (and a missed field goal) resulting in no more points on the scoreboard. The Hornets, however, were able to capitalize on a Sullivan interception with a five-play, touchdown-scoring drive of their own. Instead of kicking the PAT, the Hornets elected to go for the two-point conversion, but the Canes’ defense would not allow them to convert. At the half, the score was deadlocked at 6-6.

In the third quarter, junior Jaiden Basinger caught a pass and scored a 48-yard touchdown. Going for two, Sullivan then made a great, athletic play while falling to the ground by underhand tossing the football to junior Omarian Smith who was able to catch it and cross the goal line giving the Hurricanes a 14-6 lead as the quarter ended.

In the final quarter, the Hurricanes defense held the Hornets on their own two-yard-line and prevented them from chipping into the deficit. With a turnover on downs and only one more play remaining, Sullivan knelt down on the one-yard-line to let the time expire.

Final score: Brooklyn 14, John Hay 6

A big thank you to everyone who was able to make it out and support the home team, especially the seniors. It was cold and rainy, but Hurricane Nation cheered the entire game and wanted senior night to be memorable.

With the season finishing up this Friday at Independence High School, the varsity football team will soon be informed if they make this year’s playoffs. Once confirmed, family, friends, and Hurricane Nation will be the first to know.

Go Canes!

{For information on upcoming games and season schedules, please visit Hurricanes Athletics.}

Staff Spotlight: Mrs. Francescangeli

Teacher: Elementary

By: Morgan Blechschmid and Chloe Rojak

October 14, 2021

Chosen for this week’s Staff Spotlight is Mrs. Luanne Francescangeli! She is currently an elementary teacher in the Brooklyn School. She is best-known for her patience as well as bringing positivity into her learning environment. BHS students remember her well and credit her for guiding and paving their early paths.

Q: Where did you go to college, and why did you choose that school?

A: “I went to three different colleges. I started at Tri-C where I got my finance degree, and then, I went to Cleveland State University and Baldwin-Wallace College where I got my teaching degree. One of the schools I chose was BW because it was small and close to home; they are also known for their teaching/education program.”

Q: What grade level do you currently teach, and what have you taught throughout your career?

A: “I taught second grade for 19 years. Teaching second grade made up the majority of my career. Now, I am currently teaching third grade.”

Q: What would you say has been your favorite part about teaching in Brooklyn?

A: “I like that we’re all like one big family, but my favorite part was teaching at Roadoan in the early years. We always stop and have a moment of silence for Roadoan being torn down.”

Q: How do you think that you have positively-affected your students in the past?

A: “I think providing hands-on activities for them and working in small groups helps them to learn quite efficiently.”

Q: What is your biggest pet peeve?

A: “All the new pop-it toys! Over the years, it always drove me crazy when the kids would come in with all their new, little toys. All of the Pokemon cards, fidget spinners, silly bands, fidget cubes, and what-not that the kids have brought in over the years!”

Q: What was the most significant life lesson ever taught to you?

A: “It’s never too late to learn.”

Q: Do you have a favorite book or series to read?

A: “I would go with Harry Potter.”

Q: What are your favorite hobbies/activities to do in your free time?

A: “I like golfing, biking, doing yoga, and kayaking.”

Mrs. Francescangeli, you have been a mentor to so many of us, and we cannot thank you enough for helping us to learn and for always believing in us.

Columbus Boo at the Zoo

By: Valery Warner and Laila Schwin

October 14, 2021

Columbus Zoo's Boo at the Zoo begins October 16 | WSYX

With the spooky season in full swing and Halloween soon approaching, the Columbus Zoo is hosting its annual Boo at the Zoo. The events for this year are sure to be just as impressive as the years prior, maybe even better.

Due to the rising popularity of this event, Columbus’ Boo at the Zoo is extended to three weekends within the month of October. It will take place on the weekends of October 16-18, 23-25, and 30-November 1.

The event will be open to the public between 5:00-9:00 p.m. on Fridays, 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Saturdays, and 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Sundays. Timed ticketing (click on link) and reservations are needed for admission, even for members of the Columbus Zoo. However, members are allowed in without reservations after 5:00 p.m. on Boo at the Zoo days.

Weather On The Go visits the Columbus Zoo for 'Boo at the Zoo' | WTTE

This year’s Boo at the Zoo includes Jama’s Jack-O-Lantern Journey Seek-N-Find, Halloween Hullabaloo Rolling Celebration, Tommy C. Turtle’s Trick or Treat Trail, and Halloween Homecoming at Frogwortz Academy. There are also many more festivities to enjoy.

To ensure that all guests and staff stay safe during this spooky season, the Columbus Zoo will be working with the Delaware Health District on COVID-19 protocols. This will include frequent hand-sanitizing stations, social distancing when possible, and clear barriers between guests and staff members when passing out candy on the trick or treat route.

If you are planning on visiting the Columbus Zoo for this year’s Spooktacular fun, be sure to stay safe and enjoy all of the Boo at the Zoo festivities. It is a short drive and well-worth it!

Meet the 2021 Homecoming Court

By: Alaysia Curry and Daylun Armstrong

October 12, 2021

The Homecoming week festivities have kicked off, and we would like to introduce you to our 2021 BHS Homecoming Court Candidates.

*King Candidate #1: Adrian Fernandaz

Three words that can be used to describe Adrian are energetic, thoughtful, and easy-going. Adrian has been on the boys varsity soccer team since his freshman year, and his skills and abilities have earned him the title of team captain for this season. Adrian is also a dedicated Crew member, making sets and building props for our school’s musicals/plays. His artistic ability grabbed the attention of the National Art Honor Society as well. Adrian plans to attend a four-year college to major in Business or Finance.

*Queen Candidate #1: Alexis Smeznik

Three words that can be used to describe Alexis are reliable, smart, and creative. Alexis has shown her creativity and involvement in many BHS art programs. During the Fall, she can be found under the Friday night lights showing her creativity through choreography as a Hurricette. When marching band season is over, Alexis can be found in the auditorium as a member of Crew. She is also a member of the National Art Honor Society. Alexis is also a dedicated Cosmetology student at Polaris. Her dream goal is to attend Kettering University for Automotive Engineering Design and channel her artistic ability to design sports cars in the future.

*King Candidate #2: Maceo Pytel

Three words that can be used to describe Maceo are calm, athletic, and outgoing. Maceo shows fierce athleticism as a four-year varsity guard on the boys basketball team. When Maceo is on the court, he displays such strong unity and leadership with his teammates that he was named team captain during his junior year. For the future, he has not made a commitment to just one school as of now, but he does know that he would like to play basketball and possibly major in something in the athletic field.

*Queen Candidate #2: Daylun Armstrong

Three words that can be used to describe Daylun are kind, open-minded, and trustworthy. Daylun is one of Brooklyn’s most-involved students. She has been an active member of Key Club for four years and Brooklyn High School’s Student Council for five years. She has made countless posters, teacher appreciation gifts, and has volunteered at every single blood drive since her 8th grade year, which has earned her the title of Student Council President her junior and senior years. Daylun is also a member of the National Art Honor Society and National Honor Society. She is incredibly-dedicated and hardworking and has maintained a stellar 4.08 GPA throughout her high school career. While she says she doesn’t know exactly what her future career may hold, she is certain that whatever she decides to do, she wants to create a positive change in our world.

*King Candidate #3: Evan Chong

Three words that can be used to describe Evan are kind-hearted, easy-going, and sociable. Evan is one of Brooklyn’s most musically-talented students. He has been involved in marching/concert band and has been a part of the musical cast since his freshman year. Evan’s amazing talent scored him a role as Davey in the BHS production of Newsies. Evan attends Polaris for EMT and Fire which he plans to use in the future by completing his EMT degree and soon after completing paramedic school where he will become a fireman.

*Queen Candidate #3: Izzy Santiago

Three words that can be used to describe Izzy are extraordinary, fashionable, and understanding. Izzy wears many hats for Brooklyn when it comes to clubs. She has been a member of Key Club for four years, GSA for two, Hurricettes for three, show choir, singing storm, and Hurricane harmony for four years, not to mention three years of performances with ensemble roles for the school’s musicals. With her countless amounts of blood, sweat, and tears, Izzy has become the captain of Brooklyn’s Singing Storm. Izzy attends Polaris in the Business and Technology program. Izzy plans to attend Cuyahoga Community College for two years before transferring to Kent State University where she will study Fashion and International Business.

*King Candidate #4: Zach Dyson

Three words that describe Zach are funny, kind, and eccentric. Zach is one of the school’s most dedicated leaders and performers. He has been a member of marching, jazz, and concert band since his freshman year. He has moved up the ranks throughout the years as an underclass representative and finishing as senior class president. He has held lead roles in musicals, one being in Freaky Friday. Zach plans to attend Kent State University where he plans to major in Forensic Science.

*Queen Candidate #4: Alyanna Benz

Three words that can be used to describe Alyanna are charismatic, sweet, and persistent. Alyanna is a former cheerleader as well as a former team member of volleyball for one year and basketball for two years. She also shows her dedication and drive for her future as a member of AVID (College & Career Success). Alyanna spends much of her time outside of school working as a nail technician and caterer. After graduation, she plans to attend college with a double major in Business and Cosmetology to one day open up her own salon.

*King Candidate #5: Alex Hernandez

Three words that can be used to describe Alex are funny, loving, and charming. Alex is one of Brooklyn’s most dedicated and elite athletes. He has been playing on the football team for four years and is currently the team captain. He is a three-year varsity baseball player and was elected as a class officer during his junior year. After college, Alex plans to attend a four-year university where he will continue to play football.

*Queen Candidate #5: Gwen Spaliatsos

Three words that can be used to describe Gwen are funny, outgoing, and friendly. Gwen is a very committed and hardworking athlete. She is involved in athletics all-year-round as a member of varsity soccer, varsity basketball, and varsity softball teams. Not only does she work hard on the field, she continues to prove her hardwork and commitment to BHS by being an active member of Student Council this year, too. Gwen can also be found at Polaris in the Dental program where her leadership skills shine as Vice President of the program. Eventually, Gwen wants to be the boss, which is why she plans to attend Kent State University for Business Administration and one day run and manage her own company.

We want to thank all of the candidates for all of their hard work, dedication, and for simply just being themselves. We would also like to thank Mrs. Bader for all of the hard work that she put into the candidates’ bios, the Meet the Court assembly, as well as all of Homecoming week.

Come out to the football game this Friday, October 15, as the 2021 Homecoming King and Queen will be revealed.

Good luck to all ten candidates!

Late Deficit Dooms Hurricanes

By: Jaiden Basinger, Jose Nazario, and Tyler Elzholz

October 12, 2021

This past Friday, the varsity football team hosted the visiting Trinity Trojans. Coming into the contest, the Hurricanes were looking to up their 3-4 record to the .500 clip while also keeping their playoff hopes alive, but the upset-minded Trojans (now 2-6) had other plans.

In the first quarter, the Hurricanes played suffocating defense making it difficult for the Trojans to sustain any drive and put points on the scoreboard. Offensively, senior quarterback Jacob Sullivan scored on a one-yard run, but a missed PAT resulted in a first quarter score of 6-0 in favor of the Hurricanes.

Having played great defense in the first quarter, the Canes continued to do so in the second quarter until the final five minutes. The Trojans scored on a three-yard run. After the touchdown, they decided to go for two points and converted, making the score 8-6. Offensively, the Canes had their chances as they moved the ball up and down the field, but they couldn’t get into the red zone thus frequently punting the ball away. One defensive miscue and a stalled offense gave the Hurricanes a two-point deficit at the half, trailing 8-6.

In the third quarter, the Trojans came out a different team and started strong defensively forcing the Canes to a quick three-and-out. On their ensuing offensive possession, the Trojans scored on their first drive off of a quarterback sneak, making the score 14-6 in their favor. Similar to their first touchdown, they went for two points and converted again to take a 16-6 lead. Shortly after another defensive stop, the Trojans marched down the field again and scored another touchdown and two-point conversion, upping their lead to 24-6. This is how the third quarter ended.

In the fourth quarter, the Hurricanes were finally able to move the ball. Midway through the quarter, Sullivan scored on a long touchdown run of 57 yards, and with a successful two point conversion, Trinity’s lead was now 24-14. Unfortunately, time was the Hurricanes’ worst enemy, and they were unable to score again.

Final score: Trinity 24, Brooklyn 14

Now with a record of 3-5, the Hurricanes are still in the hunt for the OHSAA playoffs but have a must-win game this Friday as they host the John Hay Hornets for Homecoming and Senior Night. Kickoff is at 7:00 at the Coach Jerry Younger Field.

Go Canes!

For information on upcoming games and season schedules, please visit Hurricanes Athletics.

Staff Spotlight: Mr. Verba

“Mr. Brooklyn”

By: Morgan Blechschmid and Chloe Rojak

October 7, 2021

Mr. Jim Verba is one of our well-known staff members here at Brooklyn High School. Verba has had a long-tenured and successful, 34-year stint here at BHS. He has held multiple roles within the district as a Science and Math Teacher, Girls Basketball Coach, Junior Varsity Baseball Coach, and Athletic Director. Everyone knows Verba; his humor, enthusiasm, and personality are contagious. Simply, he makes BHS a better place.

Q: With all of your years of experience, what advice would you give to a new teacher?

A: “Be flexible! You have to be able to adapt. More importantly, try to get to know your students and invest in them. Make them know that you care about them. Lastly, make sure you treat everyone like you would want to be treated. It takes a ton of people to run a school effectively. Make sure you let everyone know you appreciate them.”

Q: What do you enjoy more, being in the classroom or being the athletic director? Why?

A: “I enjoy being in the classroom more because I get to have more interactions with the students at Brooklyn High School on a more regular basis. I’m still adjusting, but with the help of the administration and my fellow teachers and friends, the change has gone far smoother than I anticipated. I miss the coaches and watching our athletes compete, but I can still attend games on my own time, when it’s convenient to me. I definitely appreciate the extra time I now have to do other things like work on my “HONEY DO” list that I have but never got time to do because I was so busy being the Athletic Director.”

Q: How many years of educational experience do you have and how many more until you decide to retire?

A: “I started in 1987 teaching at Garfield Heights, and then after one year, I left to come to Brooklyn. After this year is over, I will have 35 years of educational experience. I hope to go 2-3 more years if possible. I enjoy my job and teaching kids makes me feel young and energizes me. Plus, I would miss all of my teaching colleagues and friends.”

Q: What makes Brooklyn a special place?

A: “Small town where everyone seems to know each other. I moved to Brooklyn when I was sixteen and have been a part of the community ever since. I love it here.”

Q: What are your favorite hobbies when you’re not at school?

A: “I like to work on jigsaw puzzles (no less than 1000 pieces). I enjoy traveling and spending time with my wife. I also really enjoy watching movies, especially foreign ones.”

Q: If you could meet anyone in the world, who would it be and why?

A: “I would say I would like to meet Jesus Christ or Muhammed. I am intrigued by world religions and would have loved to have met them and heard them preach. I would also have loved meeting William Shakespeare. I’m a big fan and love the way he writes!”

Q: What is your favorite season of the year and why?

A: “I love Summer because I am on vacation, but I don’t really like the heat. I prefer Fall if I had to choose. Love the color changes and cooler temperatures.”

Q: If you could go back to one point in your life, what would it be and why?

A: “Very tough question…don’t like to look back. I’ve made some mistakes in my life as we all do, and I’m sure I would have liked to have gone back and fixed one of those ‘mistakes’. Frank Sinatra’s famous song ‘My Way’ says it all.”

Thank you for your time and for the dedication that you put into Brooklyn High School. We know you bleed Blue and Gold, and we love you, Verbs!

Spooky Pooch Parade

By: Laila Schwin and Valery Warner

October 7, 2021

Next Saturday on October 16 marks the 14th annual Spooky Pooch Parade in Lakewood, Ohio. The parade is part of a larger dog-themed festival at Madison Park, and it is free to the general public. The festival is full of dog-themed vendors, mostly small businesses, that you can support, even if you do not have a dog participating in the parade.

Other events at the festival include music by DJ Byron, dog games, crafts, a dog yoga class, and of course, all of the vendors and their dog products. There will also be a 50/50 raffle. This festival begins at 12:30 p.m. at Madison Park, which will also mark the beginning of the parade route later in the day.

At 2:00 in the afternoon, all registered owners and their dogs will come together for the parade. The parade route will take them from Madison Park through Lakewood’s Birdtown neighborhood.

Shortly after the parade, a costume contest will be held. The contest is for all dogs and people participating in the parade. The contest will be judged in the categories of Best Pooch and Child, Best Pooch and Adult, and Best Pooch and Group.

There will also be awards and prizes for the Spookiest Pooch and the Best in Show. The winner of the Best in Show award will receive a year’s worth of free dog food.

Registration opened on August 25, but dogs can be registered up until the day before the event for $10. Discounts are available if multiple dogs are registered. You can register for the event at Lakewood Alive.

Day-of registration for the event is $15 per dog. All profits made from the parade and registration costs will go directly to Lakewood Alive, a community nonprofit organization.

This may anger the feline population, but may the best pooch win!

The Hurricanes Meet Former PAC Foe

By: Jaiden Basinger, Jose Nazario, and Tyler Elzholz

October 5, 2021

Last Thursday, the varsity soccer team hosted the Clearview Clippers. Both the Hurricanes and Clippers are former members of the Patriot Athletic Conference, a league that dissolved a couple of years ago. So, familiarity with each team was on cue as this tightly-contested game ended in a 3-3 tie.

The Hurricanes were looking to bounce back after a very tough loss earlier in the week against Elyria Catholic, and they did just that against the visiting Clippers. The Canes played very well offensively and defensively, and they almost pulled off the victory.

In the first half, the Hurricanes came out fast scoring two goals in a row, both by junior Tariq Hattab. The Canes played stellar defense for much of the half holding the Clippers to zero goals until the final minute when they scored their first goal.

At the half, the Hurricanes led 2-1.

In the second half, the Clippers came out fast carrying the momentum that they had at the end of the first half. They scored two goals and blanked the Hurricanes for much of the half looking to seal the 3-2 road victory. However, the Hurricanes did not back down. Nearing the end of the game and confidence still high, sophomore Tyler Pallota scored a goal, knotting the game at three goals a piece.

This is how it ended, a 3-3 tie.

It was a very competitive game, and the boys should be proud of their effort, teamwork, and confidence, especially when trailing late. Never giving up is a sign of a team on the rise.

With some positive momentum, the Hurricanes will look to bounce back tonight on the road against the Lutheran West Longhorns.

Good luck, boys.

Go Canes!

For information on upcoming games and season schedules, please visit Hurricanes Athletics.

Homecoming is Near and Student Council is Here

By: Daylun Armstrong and Alaysia Curry

October 5, 2021

Homecoming is quickly approaching, and this is one of Student Council’s busiest times of the academic year. Student Council is in charge of the homecoming dance/court events, ticket sales, decorations, posters, and spirit week.

Tomorrow, the homecoming festivities kick off with an assembly for the BHS faculty and students to meet the Homecoming Court. Each court member will be introduced and asked some questions in order for the student body to know the candidates better before casting their votes next week for King and Queen.

Next week (October 11-15), spirit week begins with the following schedule:

*Monday – Pajama Day

*Tuesday – Twin Day

*Wednesday – Decades Day

*Thursday – Color Wars

*Friday – Blue/Gold Day

The grade level colors for next Thursday’s color wars are Blue for 8th grade, Yellow for 9th grade, Orange for 10th grade, Red for 11th grade, and Purple for our beloved seniors.

There will also be a pep assembly the day before the homecoming dance (Friday, October 15) where the court will participate in Minute-To-Win-It games. The student body is encouraged to show as much school spirit as possible, to wear all Blue/Gold, and to bring a high-level of energy.

Later that night is the Homecoming football game against John Hay High School where the King and Queen will be announced. All alumni are encouraged to come back to join Hurricane Nation for the game and festivities.

Finally, on Saturday (October 16), the homecoming dance will take place with a theme of “A Night Under the Stars”. The dance, weather-permitting, will take place at the Coach Jerry Younger Field from 7:00-10:00 p.m.

If you are wondering where to purchase homecoming tickets, they will be on sale in the high school cafeteria during all lunch periods from now until October 15.

Good luck to the Homecoming Court.

Go Canes!

Staff Spotlight: Mr. Bollin

Principal: Brooklyn School

By: Morgan Blechschmid and Chloe Rojak

September 30, 2021

Welcome to Hurricane Nation, Mr. Bollin! Johnny Bollin is the newest Pre-K through 7 principal at the Brooklyn School. He began his career in 2005 at Tower Heights Middle School in Centerville, Ohio, as a Social Studies teacher for grades 6-8. In 2007, Bollin then joined the Berea City Schools and taught for six years as a 7th grade Social Studies teacher. After his teaching career, he later served as an Administrative Intern, an Assistant Principal, and later took on his most recent position, prior to here, as an Assistant Principal at Berea-Midpark High School.

Q: How has your transition been as a new member of Hurricane Nation?

A: “The transition has been fantastic! Everyone has been very welcoming and willing to help. I’m so excited to be a Hurricane.”

Q: What are your goals as principal for this year?

A: “My major goals are to become a member of the Hurricane community and build relationships.”

Q: What is it like being a principal for younger students?

A: “They are amazing. The excitement that they exude is contagious. I live to come to work and see their smiles everyday.”

Q: What has been your favorite part about working with the staff and students?

A: “My favorite part has been getting to know people. Relationships are very important to me, and I want to get to know every staff member and every student.”

Q: What are your hobbies and interests?

A: “I love working with youth in any capacity that I can, from coaching to mentoring.”

Q: What was your childhood dream job?

A: “This is my dream job. I knew that I would be in education since I was in middle school. I’ve essentially charted my life to be in this moment.”

Q: What are your favorite sports to play and watch? What teams, at all levels, do you root for?

A: “Football is my favorite sport to watch, while basketball is my favorite sport to play and study. I cheer for the Cleveland franchises as well as the Dallas franchises.”

Q: How would you describe yourself using only three words?

A: “Passion, Dedication, and Love”

Thank you Mr. Bollin for your responses! We are so honored to welcome you to the Brooklyn City School District.