Mr. Clark is in his 5th year of being a substitute teacher, starting in the 2022 school year when schools re-opened after almost 2 years of being closed for the pandemic. Mr. Clark is known more colloquially as the substitute who gives everyone candy.
Clark attended UofL, but was indecisive on if he wanted to go towards education or investigations. Down to a coin flip, Clark became a detective and worked in multiple departments, spending most of his time in LMPD’s Crimes Against Children.
“I just wanted to help young people as much as I could,” Mr. Clark said.
Clark retired from investigations to care for his mom, but when times got rough financially, he tried out his old dreams of being a teacher. Clark settled on just being a substitute.
“Admittedly, I’m not a big fan of planning or grading. I just want to be a mentor. I want to teach students and I want students to teach me.” Mr. Clark said.
“Never in my life have I been to a more supportive and connecting school,” Mr. Clark said. Through some experimenting, Clark made the conclusion that Atherton had the kindest students and staff, and decided to dedicate his time here.
Clark’s main way of connection, as most of the students know, is candy. He believes that candy is the way to someone’s soul.
“Candy calms young people. It makes them think I’m their friend. I give them candy, and in return they give me their attention and patience.” Mr. Clark said.
But most of all, Clark wants students to be kind.
“I want all the young people here to remember two things from me. Be kind, and when you’re successful, give back to us. Especially me,” Mr. Clark said.
