Q + A: Math teacher Phil Kalis
Phil Kalis looking over papers before he begins teaching his class.
January 17, 2014
Phil Kalis is not only a math teacher at Tracy High School, but he also coaches boys’ varsity and girls’ frosh-soph soccer coach. Kalis loves spending time with his family, especially on the weekends. Kalis loves fast food restaraunts, but has a hard time choosing his favorite fast food restaurant. Kalis is a teacher that you can learn from easily, and make you laugh.
What is your favorite movie? “‘Pulp Fiction’ because it is a visual masterpiece, the story telling fantastic and it has great re-watch value.”
What is your favorite part about working with teenagers? “The unpredictability of a teenagers mind.”
What college did you go to? “I went to Wheeling Jesuit University because it was close enough to have to do laundry over the weekends but far enough that I would a fresh start.”
Why did you become a math teacher? “I ask myself that question every day.”
How has soccer impacted your life? “Well it impacted my knee about a year and a half ago when I tore my ACL. It has impacted my back continuously over the past 15 to 20 years to the point where I have sciatica in my leg. It impacted my foot two years ago. It impacted my shoulder where I separated it. It is a very impactful game.”
What is the most difficult part about your job? “Keeping the seniors motivated their second semester.”
What is your most memorable moment at Tracy High School? “Going to the section finals with boys’ soccer in 2005.”
Who is a big inspiration in your life? “My parents are both teachers and they are both very happy people.”
What makes you happy? “Family, food, sleep, in that order. I am a simple man. Maybe sleep is number one.’’
What is your favorite fast food place? “Pretty much any taqueria place. Specifically, Taqueria Maguey. Papa Urbs is amazing as well.”
What is your favorite day of the week? “Saturday, because I have family, food, and sleep.”
