Stavole- the last Indians' fan
I recently caught up with Luke Stavole, Stedsman, '11 grad, and '13 M.Ed, when he brought his class to Notre Dame for a spring visit. Here's what "Mr. Stavole" had to say when he a free moment as his class toured the Hall.
St. Ed: What are you up to these days?
Stavole: I spend my days imparting
everything I know about Math and Language Arts to 5th graders at Chicago Jesuit
Academy, an all boys middle school that offers children with educational and
economic needs access to a Catholic, college preparatory middle school in the
Jesuit tradition.
St. Ed: Excellent. What is your philosophy
of the education of today’s youths- Platonic, Socratic, or maybe something
else?
Stavole: My philosophy is simply to
brainwash them into all playing football or basketball for the University of
Notre Dame. Maybe talk to Jack about putting me on the athletic department
payroll. In all seriousness, I like the kids to do a lot of the talking. When
they can explore and figure out new concepts with each other it tends to stick
with them a little more.
St. Ed:
What really goes on in the “teachers’ lounge?” Is it like an airline airport
club… overcrowded with rank food and drink?
Stavole: We have a school dog, so when he is
not on duty in a classroom he is in the teacher workroom/lounge. Running around
with him is a great way to release some energy and have some fun. The lounge is
also great when our school has a board meeting and there are leftover donuts.
St. Ed: What advice do you have for your
fellow Stedsmen?
Stavole: I transferred from another hall my
sophomore year, so I mean it when I say there is no better hall than Sted’s. My
advice would be to enjoy being in the best hall on campus and also get to know
Fr. Ralph. It’s great to have a rector that really cares about you. Don't
hesitate to ask him for advice. Also, it’s always fun to go back as an alum and
visit your old hall, but it’s more fun if you continue to foster a relationship
with people in the hall. Make sure to take time to keep in touch with people
after graduation! There is no better place than Sted’s to find a group of
lifelong friends, but it can be harder than you think to keep in touch with
everyone. Find a way to do it!
St. Ed: Word.
