By Khyana Jimmerson, Current Staff
After two major surgeries, Mike Lewandowski is back to teaching, even taking on a class he’s never taught before.
On Dec. 4, Lewandowski, better known as “Lew,” made his great return back to West Bend East High School after his two long-awaited surgeries this summer, one on his neck and another on his lower back. While recovering, he missed the first three months of the school year. Not only is he back at school but he took on a whole new class, Government and Law.
Lewandowski has taught social studies at WBHS for 26 years. Usually he teaches global studies, U.S history and Advanced Placement U.S History. He is excited to be back but there are a multitude of challenges he must face. Long days are a struggle for Lew because they are so exhausting.
Lewandowski also has to learn more about the students he’s teaching. The reality of the situation is that many students get anxious about teachers and changes. The rules and expectations in class can change and they are afraid that will affect their grades.
“I’m an acquired taste, but I’m trying to make the transition as painless as possible,” Lewandowski said. “I’m not trying to dramatically change things. There’s no doubt that some kids had anxiety, especially that their grades would change dramatically.”
However, that isn’t going to stop Lewandowski. Over his recovery time he researched Gen Z, along with perfecting his cooking skills. He is prepared to “win over” his students with his charm and food, the way to their hearts. He has a big bucket of candy that he gives out to students, has future plans to bake for them, tells jokes and tries to relate to his students.
“You ask how I’m winning them over, just by being myself,” Lewandowski said.
Grace Mallon, West senior and former APUSH student, talked very highly of Lewandowski.
“He actually cares about his students and how they do,” Mallon said. “He was not just a teacher but more of a mentor.”
Lewandowski, who was named Teacher of the Year by the Rolfs Educational Foundation in 2018, is prepared to put in the effort to impress the students just like he has done many times in the past.
(Top image: Mike Lewandowski during Holiday Spirit Week. Photo taken Tuesday by Khyana Jimmerson, Current Staff.)
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