Michael Mayfield brings humor and storytelling to his social studies classroom in San Antonio ISD

Michael Mayfield isn't a stand-up comedian, yet, but he may want to consider a third career before he retires. His students rave about the way he makes history come to life through his stories, humor and interesting factoids about the world around him. History and social studies can be dry, but Michael Mayfield's classes aren't. Just ask a student where he or she would rather be – they don't want to miss his class! They say he is always available to provide extra help. He says he just changes what he is doing and teaches the subject another way if the way he is using isn't getting through to them. Adaptability is a trait he values, and he wants them to understand its value as well.

Mayfield owned a computer retail business before he decided to try teaching for a few years – and never went back. That was 14 years ago. He currently delights students at Rhodes Middle School teaching eighth grade social studies and math. He has been the department chair in one or both of the two subject areas for the past 11 years and also mentors new teachers.

His goal for each student is that he or she will become a productive citizen and know how to understand the world around them. He believes that teaching is a privilege. "I have the honor of molding students into people who will make our country a better place in the future. There is nothing I would rather be doing."