Hunter Flack | 9th/10th Grade Health & Physical Education Teacher 

Liberty graduate Hunter Flack was recently awarded $12,500 in tuition assistance from the College Football Playoff Foundation and Dr Pepper as Conference USA’s Go Teach Dr Pepper Tuition Giveaway grand prize recipient. The tuition giveaway honors one student-athlete from each FBS conference who is pursuing a career in education. Campus representatives nominate recipients based on their aspirations to teach or coach, with the grand prize winner selected by the CFP Foundation’s Go Teach Committee. A former track and field standout from Green Lane, Pa., Flack excelled as a pole vaulter, earning All-Conference honors along with recognition on the CUSA All-Academic Team, CUSA Commissioner’s Honor Roll, and as a CUSA Commissioner’s Academic Medal recipient.

What is the best thing about being a teacher?
The best part of teaching is building relationships with students, fellow teachers, and staff. I enjoy getting to know my students, watching them grow, and helping them achieve their goals. Every day is an opportunity to make an impact on their lives, and encourage them to work hard at whatever they do.

What inspired you to become a teacher?
My family inspired me to pursue a career in education. My mom has taught high school Math and coached for over 30 years and seeing how she invests in her students has deeply influenced me. My older sister teachers 8^th grade English, my grandfather taught high school History, and I have many other relatives that are in education. I am grateful to continue that legacy and tradition of teaching within my family.

What was your favorite subject in school?
Physical Education. Ever since I can remember, I was playing sports, being part of a team, and learning discipline through sports and physical activity. My PE teachers from elementary school to high school always showed interest in my life and made me realize how special those relationships can be. They taught me lessons that extend far beyond the classroom or gym.

What makes a “good” day at school?
A good day is when students are engaged, willing to put themselves out of their comfort zone, and finding success in the little things. When I see students putting in effort, it encourages me to work harder and find ways to be a better teacher.

How do you remember all your students’ names?
This was very difficult at first, but the more I challenged myself to use their names at some point during the class, the easier I remembered. Once I learned some of their interests and hobbies and had individual conversations, it was easy to remember their names.

If you could take your students anywhere on a field trip, where would you take them?
I would take them to a college or professional sporting event. Being able to experience a game day atmosphere and see the passionate crowds and elite levels of competition can be inspiring for younger athletes. Exposing them to an environment like this shows them what they can attain if they work hard to be the best at what they do.

What advice can you share for future teachers?
Teaching has many rewards, but also many challenges. Not every day is going to be easy or enjoyable, but perspective matters. One of my favorite Bible verses is Colossians 3:23, which says “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” Remembering that my work is ultimately for the Lord helps me find joy and purpose, even on the worst of days.