CCS SUCCESS is a feature highlighting former CCS graduates and what their success within and beyond our District. Columbus City Schools employs a lot of the talent that has graduated from the District, and many CCS scholars are experiencing success in a wide array of professions.
Today’s feature highlights:
DR. VINCENT CLARNO – Director, Student Activities with Columbus City Schools
Q – Why have you chosen education as a career path?
I knew as a young man during my undergraduate study that I wanted a career that I could be proud of and that was filled with opportunities to help young people. Additionally, I had some very influential teachers in my life during middle school and high school, and their magic rubbed-off on me. One in particular was my high school basketball coach and science teacher.
Q – What are the schools that you attended during your CCS experience?
I attended Scottwood ES, Olde Orchard ES, Sherwood MS, and Walnut Ridge HS. College: Duquesne University (undergrad), The Ohio State University (masters), Capital Law School (doctorate). The educational expectations and foundation set by my family and then supported by CCS has put me in a position to truly be a lifelong learner!
When I made the decision to earn my juris doctorate (which really was made as a high schooler, just performed as an adult), I knew it would not be easy, but I had no idea about the committment it would take. I basically had to stop all social aspects of my life and it simply became family, work and school for four years (I would study for ten hour days on Saturday and Sunday).
Q – What you could share about a teacher(s) or administrator(s) who helped enlighten your path?
Mr. Ging was our basketball coach; he always took the extra time to use every opportunity to “teach” a little something! He was always trying to guide us in the right direction!
Ms. Tinker was an administrator at Sherwood MS while I was enrolled there, and while I don’t recall being in a lot of trouble (going along with the stereotype that administrator only get to know the students that get in trouble), I have warm memories of her always letting us know that she cared about us!
Q – Finally, what would you tell a student who would be interested in choosing a career in public education, and what may that look like in 20 years?
Many say education has changed, which to a degree is certainly true just by looking at the opportunities in technology alone. However, something that has not changed at all is that students are looking for someone to help guide them on the right path! Kids haven’t changed, kids still respond to a meaningful relationship, and kids cannot be fooled – they know if an adult cares or not. You can fake lesson plans, but you cannot fake if you care or not, kids just know.
My advice for anyone seeking a career in education: first - know that this career is very rewarding because you get an opportunity to help people, but it is also “thankless” work in the beginning. The “thanks” come later down the road when a student acknowledges their appreciation.
