“I think that it is something that a lot of people take for granted. I don’t think people understand the challenges that come within it. But it is extremely rewarding and something worth doing.”

These words, spoken by Alamo Heights Junior School’s Coach Olivetti, speak to one of the great truths about teaching. Olivetti, who has taught for 9 years, knows this well.

Over the years that Olivetti has taught, he learns every day. “You learn as you teach. Every class is different, every year is different, and every kid is different, so you have to learn to be able to adapt to them, and I have learned a bunch over the years,” he stated.

Moreover, Olivetti is both a teacher and a coach, so he has a lot on his plate and spends most of his day at work. “It’s definitely a lot of time management. But I enjoy the coaching aspect because I get to teach the athletes at a different level other than just in the classroom,” he said.

Despite the effort, Coach Olivetti persists. “You do get tired over time, but it’s just making sure to get your stuff done on time, like prioritizing and knowing my schedule for coaching and adapting to that,” Olivetti explained.

Furthermore, his time and energy pay off in how he motivates his students. “For math, it is more about motivation and keeping them motivated and keeping them successful. Coaching is more about taking them to the next level—they already want to be successful, so just inspiring them and helping them grow. It’s basically the same, just a different style,” he explained.

There are many reasons why Coach Olivetti continues to teach, but one specific reason stands out. “It’s really the kids. I’ll remember [students] for a long time, and when [students] graduate, I’ll probably be there. Seeing [students] learn and grow, that’s what’s really worth it about teaching.”