Next Generation of Alumni Teachers

Julian ’16 and GianMike Barone ’22 are both on the path to become full-time teachers. This summer, they’re once again back at HTS Summer Camp, where their journeys began. As students at HTS, both were members of MacDonald House, played soccer, and Julian was a prefect. In this Q&A article, the brothers reflect on their years at HTS while talking through the kind of teachers they strive to be for their future students.

Q:  Now, on your respective paths to become teachers, what gets you up in the morning, hoping to make a positive difference in the learning journey of your students?

Julian: I remember what it felt like to have a teacher who truly saw me, supported me, and ultimately, believed in me. Now I possess the ability to offer that same experience to the students of HTS. As a teacher, you are on a perpetual learning journey, and it is pertinent to be present and communicate to students that they are valued every single day.

GianMike: Having the chance to support students in reaching their goals and chasing their dreams allows me to guide them not only in learning, but in becoming more caring and thoughtful individuals. Just knowing I can make their day a little bit better keeps me going and allows me to set my needs aside for them. 

Q: When did you know this was your path? And what exactly is your dream teaching job?

Julian: Teaching was not always the plan. I originally saw myself working in business, specifically in marketing and branding, but it never felt right. I stepped back, asking myself, “What can I do every day that would not feel like work?”, which brought me back to my time as a counsellor at HTS Summer Camp. I remembered how natural it felt and how I felt fulfilled. After graduating from Toronto Metropolitan University, I decided to pursue teaching at Wilfrid Laurier University and immediately fell in love with the energy of the classroom, the team dynamic amongst staff, and the connections with students. My dream job is to teach in the Physical Education Department, which I am thrilled to be doing with Grade 9s next year. 

GianMike: From a young age, I realized I had a genuine passion for helping others and bringing people together. I began to volunteer and coach, which gave me the opportunity to build connections and see the positive impact I could make in their lives. I believe that this passion will only continue to grow as I gain more experience. My dream job in a school is to become a physical education teacher. I want to share my love for sports with my students, while also creating a space where they feel excited to be active and work together. 

Q: Was the type of teacher you want to be modeled for you while you were an HTS student? If so, what characteristics did these teachers possess? Anyone specific that stands out in your mind?

Julian: Yes, I was extremely lucky to have strong role models during my time at HTS. Although she was not my teacher, Ms Helen Pereira-Raso’s presence as Deputy Head and Head of School has always been warm and approachable. I continue to admire how genuine and personable she is. The kind of teacher I strive to be is someone who combines that same level of care, connection, and professionalism every single day.

GianMike: I was lucky to have many great teachers, but one who truly stood out to me was Ms Brocco. She was patient, approachable and had a unique way of teaching that made learning enjoyable. She created a classroom environment that was both welcoming and supportive. I hope to one day do the same for the students I teach.

Q: In your minds, how does the next generation of great teachers have to be different to accommodate young learners these days?

Julian: Despite students being constantly connected via technology, many feel isolated. Teachers must model core social skills while building secure in-person relationships. Teachers should be demonstrating empathy and flexibility, all while understanding the lasting impacts of the pandemic on emotional development and learning. Ultimately, students need to feel seen, inspired, and overall supported by someone who understands their experience.

GianMike: I believe that the next generation of great teachers must be comfortable with technology, as it plays a huge role in the lives of today’s students. They need to use technology in ways that engage students, while still encouraging independent thinking. It is also important to recognize and respect that each student has unique needs that require various methods of teaching.

Q: And lastly, what made you want to return to work at HTS Summer Camp this year? Why is HTS still important to you?

Julian: I am grateful for the chance to help shape the same positive environment that left a lasting impact on me. HTS has always been a place where I felt supported, challenged, and inspired. The camp brings out a special energy where real connections are further developed, and students feel free to be themselves. HTS continues to matter to me because it represents growth, community, and the chance to give back to a place that played such a big role in my journey.

GianMike: I wanted to return to HTS Summer Camp this year because of the relationships and connections that have been built over time. The bonds with returning campers, being in the school again, and the opportunity to work with such great people, make it a place I look forward to working at. It means a lot to me to belong to such a supportive and inclusive community at HTS. The experiences, relationships and values I gained are why the school will always hold a special place in my heart.