In this month's teacher spotlight, we are thrilled to introduce Mr. Liu, a dedicated educator who has been a part of the Mims family for over a decade. With a remarkable career that spans teaching, military service, and a passion for history, Mr. Liu brings a unique perspective to the classroom.
Having served in HISD for 21 years, Mr. Liu initially joined Mims as the elementary art teacher. You can still see his amazing artwork on the walls of MIMS! For seven years, he nurtured young minds through creativity and self-expression. However, in 2017, he made a life-changing decision to pursue his lifelong dream of joining the military as a medic in the USAF Reserve.
Embarking on a new chapter, Mr. Liu underwent two years of rigorous training, beginning with basic training in 2018. Despite the age difference, he fearlessly embraced the challenge, proving that determination knows no bounds. Following basic training, he pursued medic training at Fort Sam Houston and Nellis in Las Vegas, acquiring invaluable skills to serve his country and fellow service members.
Continuing his training, Mr. Liu underwent SERE (Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape) training in eastern Washington, preparing him for the most demanding situations. His dedication and commitment led him to flight school at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, where he honed his skills as a medic in an aviation setting.
Just as Mr. Liu was preparing to return to Mims from his military leave, the world was struck by the COVID-19 pandemic. Like many others, he found himself deployed for a seven-month mission that took him across the continental United States to the Indo-Pacific, Hawaii, the Philippines, Spain, Kuwait, Iraq, and Syria. Through his service, he not only gained a deeper understanding of the world but also developed a profound appreciation for the sacrifices made by military personnel.
In February 2020, Mr. Liu finally returned to Mims, where he has been teaching history to 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade students ever since. His vast experiences and firsthand knowledge of the world have enriched his teaching, allowing him to connect with students on a deeper level. Through engaging lessons and captivating stories, he inspires his students to appreciate the significance of history and its impact on our lives today. I have spoken to many middle school students, and they always talk about the love they have for Mr. Liu and his class.
Mr. Liu is not only a teacher but also a role model, exemplifying the values of dedication, resilience, and service. His unwavering commitment to both his students and his country is truly commendable. We are grateful to have him as a part of our Mims family, and we look forward to the continued impact he will make on the lives of our students.
Please join us in celebrating Mr. Liu and thanking him for his service, both in the classroom and in the military.