Teacher Spotlight: Michael Buchmiller
Have you met Mr. Michael Buchmiller yet? Coach Buchmiller has been in education for more than 20 years, as both a teacher and athletics coach. He has a bachelor’s degree in sociology from California State University at Stanislaus and completed the teacher education program in health and physical education at Sierra Nevada College. Previously, he coached summer collegiate baseball teams in places such as Alaska, Hawaii, Arizona, Nevada, Kansas and California. Learn more about Coach Buchmiller in this edition of #DawsonTeacherSpotlight.
How long have you been a teacher?
This is my 21st year in education and 13th at Dawson.
What’s your favorite thing about teaching at Dawson?
The students! I’ve always said that the magic begins when the students walk through the door. It’s why I do what I do--the kids help keep me motivated and young.
What is your biggest goal for this school year?
My biggest goal is to continue to add technology into the health and fitness curriculum. There are so many resources that are now at our fingertips. It will help enhance both the student and the instructor experiences by adding statistical analysis to the equation.
Describe a time when you had to choose courage over comfort.
As a father and a coach, it is extremely difficult to stand to the side and watch your children or students fail from time to time. But as excruciating as it may feel at the moment, I know it’s a vital part of their development as both a learner and an athlete.
What is one thing about you that would surprise your students?
That Coach B is actually a total nerd, and I love learning new things. I like to watch TED Talks, documentaries, study analytics, and so on. Now that the cat is out of the bag, I can start wearing my pocket-protector.
What is your favorite thing to do when you aren’t working?
When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with my family, and playing tennis.
What are you most proud of?
Being a husband, and a father (to two Dawson students - one in eighth grade and one alumnus).
The Alexander Dawson School
The Alexander Dawson School at Rainbow Mountain, an independent school located on 33-acres in the community of Summerlin, is Nevada’s first Stanford University Challenge Success partner school for students in early childhood through grade eight. Utilizing the unique Challenge Success framework, Dawson uses research-based strategies and programs that emphasize student academics, wellbeing, and a healthy school-life balance to create more engaged, motivated, and resilient learners and leaders. At Dawson, students achieve their individual potential while savoring life and meeting the challenges of the world.