Middle school science teacher Mike Whitling went from being a substitute teacher to a full-time teacher, and plenty of Tyrone Area Middle School students were happy to hear that.

Whitling is the type of teacher who can crack a joke and light up the classroom.

“Mr. Whitling makes learning fun and he does cool science experiments,” said current student Trinity Sternberg.

Whitling’s students also say that he is a “fun guy” and does a “great job connecting with his students.”

“I’m happy I got him as a teacher this year and I like how he’s nice to everybody,” said TAMS student Porter Jones.

Whitling also completed his first season as the head coach of the Lady Eagles head girls’ varsity basketball program.

EE: Why did you become a teacher?

MW: I became a teacher to help students see the wonder of science and to spark their interest in learning.

EE: Why did you choose the subject you teach?

MW: Science is always trying to answer the questions that we all have about the natural world. I enjoy experimenting and discovering the answers that we have about our world.

EE: What’s your favorite thing about teaching at Tyrone?

MW: My favorite thing about teaching at Tyrone is the people. I enjoy being able to connect with students from all different backgrounds and trying to make a difference in their lives. I also, feel an enormous amount of support from the Tyrone community and really appreciate how gracious others have been with their time and helping me through my first year.

EE: What are some of your favorite hobbies and interests?

MW: I enjoy traveling, trying new foods, and teaching basketball. I also enjoy watching sports, preferably the Pirates, Penguins and Steelers.

EE: What is some good advice you’ve been given as a teacher?

MW: Building great relationships with students is paramount to student success.

EE: What’s the hardest part of teaching and why?

MW: The hardest part about being a teacher is creating a classroom environment where all students can be courageous and successful.

EE: What are some jobs held before you got into teaching?

MW: Women’s Basketball Coach at Mansfield University, Gannon University, Anderson University and Clarion University.

EE: What’s your favorite movie?

MW: Caddyshack

EE: What is your spirit animal? Why?

MW: My spirit animal would be a Cheetah. I believe that my spirit animal displays independence, awareness, and adaptability.