This year, there have been major changes to the Oliver Ames Gym class. For one term per year, incoming Freshmen and Sophomores will go to Health Class, taught by Mr. Tienhaara, OA’s new Health teacher.
Mr. Tienhaara is a graduate from Springfield College who enjoys basketball, cooking, and traveling. He uses a variety of methods to teach, from PowerPoints to interactive polls that let students have an active role while learning. He is also a strong supporter for Health education. When asked about the importance of this new class he had a lot to say.
“Every school should have Health Class just to educate kids about healthy lifestyle choices, what they’re dealing with in high school, and once they’re out of high school how to continue making those choices.”
His journey to be a Health teacher was a long time in the making, as it all started back when he was in high school.
“I remember what it was like growing up and not having a great understanding of it (Health). Then, I had great examples of healthy living in my PE teachers around me. They opened my eyes to what Health and PE could be. I think I just have a passion of helping kids see that,” Mr. Tienhaara said.
It seems like Mr. Tienhaara and this class came at just the right time, as so many students seem uneducated about their health. It is more important than ever that we teach them to make the right decisions for themselves and their bodies. In the course they will be taught about important topics regarding the way they treat their bodies, such as what health wellness is, good vs. bad nutrition, the dangers of drugs and alcohol, and the body systems.
Mr. Tienhaara is a passionate teacher and is a great contribution to the student body hear at Oliver Ames.