Interviewing Mr. Ebron

Written by: Roe Jiataz

English Language Arts is the use and study of English in academic settings. It includes reading, writing, listening, and speaking. ELA can be an interesting subject when you have a new and exciting teacher. Mr. Ebron spoke with me about his experience working with Cliffside Park High School this year.

Q: What elective(s) do you teach?

I teach English Language Arts.

Q: Why did you decide to teach those classes?

I suppose it was the natural progression in my work career? I also have a degree in English Literature and Journalism, so it is obvious that I love reading and writing, but it also took time for me to be comfortable in my own skin, and ultimately in a classroom setting. I did not jump into education right after undergrad. It was a career change, and perhaps the best career change I have ever made.

Q: What course work could students taking your class expect?

They can expect repetition, rigor, discourse, and of course, creativity.

Q: What advice would you give to someone who is interested in this field?

For me, teaching education is like getting your first tattoo- You should think long and hard about it. If you have thought about it for years, then you know it is meant to be. I don't think I would have been able to teach right after college, but the thought of teaching never stopped lingering. I believe you need to be somewhat removed from those formative years and gain experiences in life [work, travel, time with friends and family] to be a well rounded, informed and articulate teacher, especially in ELA.

Q: Why would this class be helpful for someone who was not interested in this class?

As I said, articulation is important- writing a solid email goes a long way, being able to talk about yourself in an interview goes a long way, arguing about who is the best Avenger goes a long way [Captain America, obviously]. How we converse with peers, family, coworkers, and interviewers can leave strong impressions and long lasting effects for the one speaking, or the one listening. The foundation of conversation is built in the English classroom.

Q: Why CPHS, why not any other high school?

It's quite simple- diversity. It's nice to learn and understand new perspectives. If you're able to be empathetic towards multiple points of views and to use that in a classroom effectively, everyone can be heard and you have done your job as a teacher. Making students better people, makes them better students, but if you want to make them better, you need to understand them.

Thank you to Mr. Ebron for contributing with my article. I am glad to hear he has enjoyed his first year at Cliffside Park High School and I hope he stays for many more.