“I talk from day one about how important it is that my classroom be a safe space for everyone,” said Clark Middle School math teacher Kyle Razak. “I always remind students to treat others how you would want to be treated.”
By laying the groundwork and foundation at the beginning of each school year, Razak’s students have become accustomed to the consistency that he has provided. The expectations are known, which has ensured a highly successful career as an educator for one of Bonner Springs’ finest teachers.
For the past 25 years, Razak has been teaching math at Clark Middle School. He immediately knew in his first year that this was the place he wanted to be. After initially teaching 8th graders for six years, 6th graders for five years and 7th graders for another five years, Razak has spent the last decade as the school’s Advance Math teacher. In that role, he teaches Pre-Algebra to 7th graders and Algebra to 8th graders.
“Seeing middle school students develop physically, emotionally and academically over their three years in the building is something I really enjoy,” said Razak. “I feel like I’m able to have good relationships with my students, as they know I’m a consistent supporter of them and the things they choose to do as they navigate through school.”
In addition to teaching math, Razak has also served as the school’s track coach for the past 11 years. His plate is always full, whether it be in the classroom or on the track, but his optimistic approach to life and light-hearted personality makes him a standout figure inside school walls and in the surrounding community.
“My dad was a teacher and coach for 30 years, and a couple things he told me, I still think about today,” said Razak. “First, become friends with the secretaries and custodial staff in your building. I think it’s important that everyone (students, staff, etc.) understand the importance of everyone in the building and the roles they play in our daily successes.”
Razak was also taught how he could make a difference in his community by supporting the extracurricular activities of his students as often as possible. It helps him build relationships and gives his students an opportunity to open up about their hobbies and interests outside the classroom. Razak continually looks for ways to leave lasting impressions on his students.
“Never be afraid to ask for help, or make an effort and fail,” said Razak. “Too many students struggle with taking a chance and with asking for help. I really try to make my classroom a safe space where students can work, struggle and learn without being criticized by others. I emphasize that everyone has a right to feel comfortable, and I try to make that true with my students. That doesn’t look the same for everyone, but we all deserve a space to be who we are. I want to make that as comfortable as possible for them.”
With each passing school year, Razak challenges himself to take what he’s learned and apply it to future students. As a graduate of both Fort Hays State University and Emporia State University, he has cherished each opportunity he’s been given in the Sunflower State and is continually trying to be someone who can be relied upon to help out and accomplish all tasks that need to be completed.
“When each new year comes around, I’m fortunate that my previous class of 7th grade pre-algebra students return to my 8th grade algebra class,” said Razak. “It’s fun to see how they develop through mathematics over the course of two years. It’s helpful to know where they have been, what they have done and to keep that in mind whenever things get tough.”
“Kyle is seen by many in the community as a father figure for countless athletes and students he has had the honor to teach, coach and mentor,” said Razak’s nominator Ashley Razak. “His days are spent waking up early and waiting until the last kid leaves after practice in the evenings. Kyle has been named an Excellence in Education award winner four times and a Chamber of Commerce teacher of the month twice, but what matters most to him are when students choose him as a teacher/coach to stand with them as a sponsor for National Honor Society or as their most inspiring teacher during their senior sports nights.”
“Kyle’s dedication to the Clark Middle School community for the past 25 years is remarkable and valuable in numerous ways,” said Jenny Housley, Blue KC President. “The way he goes above-and-beyond for his students, fellow faculty members and athletes is inspiring, admirable and impactful. His passion for education reminds us of the value teachers in our community provide. Congratulations on being named a Blue KC Sporting Samaritan!”
Fans are encouraged to nominate teachers and students who are making a positive impact on their schools and communities by using the form online at https://www.BlueKC.com/NominateSportingSamaritan.
