TEACHER'S CORNER: PHYSICS CLASS MAKES HAIR STAND ON END

Brad Wittenborn says his class can make your hair stand on end. He teaches physics at Notre Dame High School.

"I teach physics because, not only is it one of the most practical and logical of the disciplines, it is the most interesting," he said. "We get the best toys and neatest demonstrations."

But physics is more than just demonstrations of static electricity, which does make student's hair stand on end. "Physics is an appropriate arena for discussing how things work," he said. "We cover topics like camera optics, car engines, motors, etc.

"I try to provide an appropriate mix of lecture, demonstration, problem solving and lab work. This allows students with various strengths and learning styles to be successful," he said. "After all, nothing motivates like success."

Wittenborn entered college in 1974 with plans to pursue electrical engineering. During college he worked at various jobs to pay his way.

"I took a position as a lab assistant in the physics department at SEMO," Wittenborn said. "Teaching was too much fun to pass up, so I changed my major to education.

"As Frost said in `The Road Not Taken,' `That choice has made all the difference.'"

Wittenborn said he knows other people who dread going to work in the morning. "But I can honestly say that I am doing what I want to do."

He said Notre Dame combines a good staff with enthusiastic students.

"Even if part of my day doesn't go just right, I know that when I get to the classroom that the students will pick me up and work will be fun again," he said.

In addition to teaching physics, Wittenborn works as guidance counselor, administrative assistant, computer coordinator and soccer coach.

He earned bachelor's and master's degrees in education with majors in math and physics. He also holds certificates in secondary administration and counseling.

Wittenborn and his wife, Michelle, have two sons, Danny, a freshman at Notre Dame, and Scott, a fourth-grader at St. Vincent's.

When not teaching, Wittenborn is -- well -- teaching. He coaches youth baseball, soccer and basketball and has served on the board for baseball and soccer. He is also a member of the school's alcohol and substance abuse prevention team.