Mackenzie teacher strives to help students succeed

Hush Your Mouth! spoke with Darin McKissic, a well-noted biology teacher at Mackenzie High School and Wayne County Community College in the city of Detroit, about his feelings on black youth and the community. We also asked about where he stands on issues of leadership and education for our black youth in today's society.  

Darin McKissic

Can you tell me a little bit about your background and how it led to your position as a Biology teacher in the Detroit Community?    

I've always believed in identity, purpose and direction. I believed in knowing one's self having a positive purpose, taking care of those around me, and directing them toward success. In order to achieve these things I decided to get deep into the various sciences.

What other types of things besides teaching have you done in the Detroit area to help with the intellectual growth with young adults?                                         

I've worked in the summer youth jobs program, the City of Detroit Empowerment Zone and the Neighborhood Opportunity Fund.       

How do you feel about young African-Americans continuing their education beyond high school?

I think it's paramount, they have to continue in order to get more expertise needed to develop their communities.    

Do you feel as if teaching is a good way to reach out to young students in the community?

Definitely.  It's extremely important because students spend more organized time in their school buildings than in their homes. Also, a lot of students don't have functional families to help them make it through society.

What do you think are two positive things about teaching as well as two negatives?

On the positive side, you get to save minds and to make a difference in people's minds, encouraging students to branch off into certain careers.  I would have to say that, on the negative side, sometimes you have interference from administrators who don't share your views.  Also, a lot of times you don't have enough resources for students.

What is the need for more black science teachers in the Detroit Community?       

There is a serious need for more black teachers from the community to relate to and encourage inner city students to get into areas of learning that have never previously been anticipated.                

Do you think that the science concepts that you are implementing in your classroom are needed for the student's future?

Yes.  All the concepts and labs are always kept updated.  

What kind of motivational tools are used in your classroom in order to keep students wanting to learn?

I have exciting laboratories and state of the art instruction. We also have life development skills in class, which helps with student motivation.

What is your greatest reward in teaching?                               

Watching my students obtain their goals, watching my students become independent, and watching my students contribute back to the community.

How long do you plan on teaching?                                                       

I love my job. I plan on teaching as long as I can.