Mr. Kevin Mills is a first year teacher at Arcadia High School (AHS) this year, teaching independent study and working as an intervention coordinator. These are extremely helpful for students who learn from home online due to difficulties in their life, or students who need credit recovery.
“I believe all students should have a chance to learn, and teachers are crucial supporters who help the individual to be a success in their own mind, which is why I chose to become a teacher,” said Mr. Mills as he looked back on his long career.
Mr. Mills first attended California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo and California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Finance Management. He then pursued a Master of Arts in Human Development with a specialization in Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling (MFCC) at Pacific Oaks College. After graduating, Mr. Mills obtained a Master of Science in Coaching and Athletic Administration from Concordia University. Finally, he earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a teaching credential from National University.
Before coming to AHS, Mr. Mills taught both English and math subjects for 20 years in the Pasadena Unified School District. He worked at Washington Elementary School, Wilson Middle School, Blair High School, and Rose City High School.
Mr. Mills believes that as an educator his ultimate purpose is to impart knowledge and motivate students through shared life experiences.
“My motivation comes from my own experiences of having been a student myself. To help students and athletes overcome obstacles in order to progress and succeed, I have to be caring, nurturing, and understanding.” said Mr Mills on his principles.
“I see a little of myself in each child I teach,” said Mr. Mills. “This is how I understand their plight, as I believe students can sense teachers speak from a deep personal reference.”
Thinking about his first couple of weeks at AHS, Mr. Mills said, “One thing I really like about the Arcadia community is how every student is eager to learn new things.”
Mr. Mills also coached football his entire teaching career before coming to AHS. During his free time, he enjoys watching football, and his favorite team is the Trojans of the University of Southern California. You can also catch him watching reruns of his favorite movie The Godfather.
“I just wanted to say thank you to the Arcadia community for having me,” said Mr. Mills.
