Every week, the Roaring Times selects a Teacher of the Week. This week we chose Mr. Detomasi, the art teacher at John H. Pitman High School.

1. How long have you been teaching?

“Twenty-three years, a few in elementary, two at Turlock High School, and ever since Pitman High School opened.”

2. What advice would you give to a student going into college?

“Think about how overwhelmed you are now and double it, and really research what it is you want to do.”

3. Why did you decide to become a teacher?

“I wanted a job that had interaction with other people.”

4. What was your favorite subject in high school?

“Art because when I was thirteen I visited Italy and saw Michael Angelo’s art work and knew that was what I wanted to do.”

5. What do you like to do for fun outside of school?

 “I like to read, hunt, hike, go fishing, and obviously do art.”

6. What is your best teaching philosophy?

“I like to build up students by starting simple then just keep building on those concepts.”

7. Do you feel as though you make an impact on your student’s lives? If so, how?

“Yeah some I try to be a positive role model and try to push them hard, especially those with art as a career goal.”

8. Many students say teachers inspire them, who inspires you? Why?

“Two of my teachers inspired me my art teacher who I base a lot of my teachings off of, and my high school football coach who taught me how to never quit or give up.”