As we near the end of the school year, it is important to reflect on those who have supported us academically and athletically. Mr. Lapolla is the definition of this and will sadly being leaving us next year. I took some time to ask Mr. Lapolla, who has been my advisor for the past three years, some questions regarding his time at Severn.
Emily Giorgio: How many years have you been at Severn?
Mr. Lapolla: This is my fifth year at Severn, and I have been a grade dean for the past three years.
What classes have you taught?
I have taught Algebra I, Algebra II, Honors Precalculus, Statistics and Probability, and AP Statistics.
What has been your favorite class to teach?
I have loved teaching Statistics and Probability over my five years at Severn. For many students, it is their first time seeing the relevancy of statistics in real world analysis, and the class is able to investigate how data can better inform decision making. Over the years, we have done so many amazing projects, such as who deserves to be the MVP of the NBA, what influences the popularity of celebrities, or how to create our own board games.
What is your favorite memory at Severn?
There have been so many incredible experiences for me at Severn. Even though I have only been here for five years, the relationships I have built with so many members of our community have helped define me as a person. I will never forget coaching in the football and baseball programs and making the championship games for both within my first two years here. The players in both of those programs are incredible, and I am so proud to have coached all of them.
Yet, my favorite memories are probably being the Class of 2022 Grade Dean. I have loved my time working with all 98 of the current Juniors and will greatly miss them during their Senior year. I will never forget the memories from day one at Genesee Valley to the current takeover of Creeden Commons.
Where are you going next year?
I will be the Dean of Students at University Liggett School in Grosse Pointe, MI. Mrs. Lapolla, Robbie, Hank, and I will be living right next to campus, and I will also be coaching in the football program.
Will you come back and visit Severn?
Of course! Maybe a cameo appearance during the Class of 2022’s winning Sing for Your Supper next year?!
Do you have anything extra that you would like to add or say?
Severn has allowed me to grow as a teacher, coach, leader, and person, and I am so thankful to the entire community for welcoming my family five years ago. I will miss the daily chaos of my room on the first floor of Creeden, and I hope that all of you will stay in touch in the future. As I told the baseball team after the end of our season yesterday: even though I am exiting the Severn faculty, I will not be leaving the Severn community. This place will always hold a special place in my heart.
