Teacher Spotlight: Mr. Fourre

by, Karin Adams

Mr Fourre aka (4A) is currently my Honors English teacher. In addition to being my teacher for senior year Honors English, Mr. Fourre was also my English teacher in 8th grade. So I figured, why not make an article about him? Mr Fourre is a great teacher and also a very determined one. Most teachers don’t put in as much as work, nor do they go this hard. That is not Mr. Fourre. He has his own way of doing things. He is a teacher that not only determine to teach you, but is also determined to help you.  And I don't mean only while you're in his class but in your future endeavors. Everyone should experience a teacher like this. He can be a great mentor but you’ll have to show him how you roll. Meaning what work are you willing to put in to help yourself. We need more teachers like him. Even though teachers like Mr. Fourre may come off like a hassle, but they only want to help you succeed.

I took the time to ask him a few questions and these were his answers. Here's what he had to say:

How would you describe yourself as a teacher? In other words, what would you say to the incoming honors students about your teaching style?

"I would describe my teaching style as modified traditional. What I mean by that is if you are a Senior in high school, ESPECIALLY in an honors class, the training wheels are off. It’s time for you to take ownership of what you learn. My job is not to entertain you, but to teach you. If we have some fun along the way, great, but that is not my top priority. It’s time for you, as a student and young adult, to step it up. I will make myself available to help whenever you ask, but a senior in my honors class is expected to act like a serious student on their way to independence."

What drives you to be a high school English teacher? Why not college?

"I enjoy the unpredictability of high school. While the upper class students are expected to start taking ownership of their educational careers, there is a lot of fun to be had, as a teacher, with the underclass students. They are still getting a feel for themselves and it is fun watching them find out who they are and what they are capable of."

How would you describe your experience teaching in Newark at University High School? What brings you back to the classroom every year? How many different schools have you worked at?

"Teaching in Newark is never boring. Whether it is the frustration of what is not available or the inherent challenge of working with high school students. What bring me back every year is the anticipation of working with another group of potential game changers. I have worked at 6 different programs / schools in Newark, and by far University is my favorite. The energy and expectations at University High School is infectious and re-energizing."

As you can see University of one of his favorite schools. I mean why wouldn't we be. Thanks for being great 4A!