09/09/2024
Mr. Bukvics first taught me the lifelong skill of critical thinking in his Foreign Policy class. He would lean over his podium, rocking back and forth, and educate us by telling the story of a historical event from various perspectives and then asking us what we thought. You stopped worrying about giving a right/wrong answer, and instead, he would guide you through a series of smaller questions to come to your conclusion and response with self-confidence. His exams weren't based on memorization of historical dates, people, and places but rather essays that made you develop an understanding of a conglomeration of events, personalities, and backstories, how it all came together, and how it could apply in the current day.
We played a game like Risk, divided into teams based on a country. This game taught me the importance of emotional intelligence and diplomacy, skills still applicable in my career and personal life, such as being on a committee or collaborating with others. Mr. Bukvics empowered us with the foundation to serve others as adept leaders.
You may not have been sure if Mr. Bukvics was a grump, but If you were late for his class, he would be the first to stir up the shenanigans, so when you entered the door, your classmates would be in on some harmless prank on you, which made us all laugh and the days memorable. As someone chronically late, I ensured I never was for his class.
Other amazing Becahi teachers were Fr. Philip Rodgers, CRSP, (Theology), (American Government) and Mrs. Joanne Cole (English).
