How one teacher inspires Neumann-Goretti students to embrace their unique passions

By Delaney Capitolo

Mr. Clark has been with NG for about four years now. He has proven to be one of the teachers in Neumann who are truly for the students. By this, I mean that he will listen! He always finds ways to connect with his students, whether it’s silly, dramatic unveilings of their latest in-class read, or hosting Broadway trips for the musical theater lovers! 

Last year, with the help of a few eager students (such as myself), Mr. Clark, implemented Neumann Goretti’s book Club. When asked what made him want to start this club, he said, “I think that there are a lot of ‘underground’ readers at Neumann-Goretti, students who enjoy reading in their free time, and I wanted to give those folks a chance to connect.” Disconnecting from our phones and connecting with our authentic selves is truly important to Clark. He preaches to every student to find that outlet, whether it be reading, music, friends, family, as long as it is the outlet that allows you to express yourself in your own unique way. Finding the one thing that is specific to you is so important to truly finding ourselves. 

Mr. Clark, thank you for helping so many students feel safe enough to embrace what makes us unique! Thank you for listening to the silly ideas of young minds and helping them to make their dreams come true. You truly have been a light in all of our lives! 

If you feel like literature may just be your outlet, reach out to Mr. Clark for some great recommendations, and join us in the new year for our next read in book club; it’s never too late! Your opinions matter in the book club, as our main goal is to find books everyone can find interest in.