Faculty Spotlight: David West
College/ Degrees? Portland State University, B.S. Geography UNH, M.A. Natural Resources
Years of service to FA? This is my 12th year teaching at FA.
Subject(s) taught: Special Education, Alternative Program, Computer Science, Digital Art, and Aviation.
Other roles you have at FA: Mr. West was a dorm parent in Chase Hall and P-M for several years.
Fun fact: Mr. West has jumped out of an airplane!
Background: Mr. West grew up in the large city of Portland, Oregon. He never imagined he would live in the countryside or a small town, but here he is! His son, Owen, graduated from FA in 2022. Mr. West is married to Ms. Allen, who also works at FA.
Why did you become a teacher? I have always enjoyed teaching–like roles. I have been a camp counselor, worked at an outdoor education program, and was a peer mentor to freshmen in college. Even though I enjoyed all those roles, I never thought about being a teacher until 12 years ago. So, I left my job as a regional planner to get into education.
What is your favorite class to teach and why? I genuinely enjoy Digital Art. After watching students in Tech Fusion class be very creative and seeing their abilities, I proposed a digital art program, and the administration agreed.
How would you describe yourself as a teacher? Kind, compassionate, friendly.
How do you motivate your students? I develop a personal relationship with students and use that relationship to encourage them. It almost always works.
Is there anything from your experience as a student that has influenced you as a teacher? I was a student with disabilities. I had been diagnosed with dyslexia and undiagnosed Attention Deficit Disorder, so school was a challenge for me. It got easier as I got older, but I recognize the struggle of students like me, which makes me compassionate.
Do you have any advice for students? Phones are fun and exciting, but try to find a significant part of the day when you can do something not phone-related. Be outside. Try talking to your friends.