Have you ever had a teacher so impactful that they influenced you in a way that changed your outlook on not only your education but your life? Mr. Neil Manning is the teacher who did that for many students.
Mr. Manning is a third-grade teacher at Schnell Elementary but has also taught at C.F. Holiday, Russell, and subbed at Frank Nicholas. However, before teaching young minds, he was a pirate just like us. Mr. Manning graduated in 1996 and then went on to attend Wright State University for his bachelor’s and master’s. He wanted to return so he never had to leave the happy memories made. When in college Mr. Manning was able to student teach at his old elementary school, Harry Russell alongside his past teachers, and from that point on he has loved the familiarity of the pirate halls. The teaching staff also brought him back with their commitment to the students, handling more than just the curriculum. Now as a teacher, Mr. Manning wants students to know that our teachers are not out to get us. Mr. Manning states that teachers are here to “help you be better, learn more, and do more.”
Today’s senior class would have gotten the chance to have Mr. Manning in 3rd grade at C.F. Holiday. As a student of his, Mr. Manning’s many shared fun stories and said Mr. Manning was “a teacher like no other.” Students recalled enjoying being in his class because of the interactive environment and the fun way of learning that took place.
One student recalled Mr. Manning’s wax museum project that encouraged students to research and learn about a person in history they found interesting. But Mr. Manning’s projects never ended with a paper, the students had to dress up and pretend to be their historical figures. Students from today’s current sophomore class recall building a GaGa Ball pit for the whole school to enjoy at recess.
As a former student of Mr. Manning, I can say that one of my favorite things about having Mr. Manning as a teacher was his reading corner and listening to him read to the class. In the corner, of the classroom sat a funky-looking chair with a knight in shining armor next to it where Mr. Manning read to my homeroom every day. However, Mr. Manning gave each character a different voice to bring them to life, sparking my love for English. It’s these fun times in his class that made students want to come to school.
Just like the impact Mr. Manning has on his students, he too was impacted by West Carrollton staff. Young Manning enjoyed teachers who rewarded the good kids like Mrs. Knight and Mrs. Mills, showing Manning justice for what is right. Miss. Dorn “was the person who really made me want to teach.” Like Mr. Manning, Miss Dorn was able to reach all students.
It is the family-like staff and the joy that comes from teaching that seems to be the reason Mr. Manning is here. All students who had him can contest his great teachings and loving heart towards students. Thank you, Mr. Manning, for all you do in this district and for continuing your Pirate journey with us.
