Teacher of the Week 9: Martin Kulak

Teachers are real life superheroes. Every day, CHS teachers touch the lives of thousands of students, and their work extends beyond the boundaries of the classroom. To show appreciation for these teachers, the Crier asked students to identify teachers that have made a real impact in their lives. A new student and teacher will be featured each week.

This week, Himal Patel, ‘18, nominated physics teacher Martin Kulak.

Maggie Jakopac

Mr. Kulak explains different types of waves to his students.

Patel: Mr. Kulak is hilarious, relatable, and I can always talk to him about “Harry Potter.”

Crier: What about physics appeals to you?

Kulak: I love to learn about where things come from, which physics is all about.

Crier: Some of your students said you almost minored in dancing?

Kulak: Yeah, I almost did. Back when I was studying at Illinois Wesleyan University, we had to take a gym class, so I took fencing. I also took ballroom dancing, and I ended up really liking it. So, I took ballet and modern dance and jazz dance. In the end, I was one class away from getting a minor, but I couldn’t take it because I didn’t want to buy tap shoes for the tap class.

Crier: What else did you do at college?

Kulak: One of my fondest memories was the radio show six friends and I started. I don’t even remember what it was called, but it ran from midnight to two in the morning. It was goofy and dumb, but I will always remember it.

Crier: What are some of your favorite TV shows and movies, and why?

Kulak: I love “Star Wars”; I even went to watch “Rogue 1” on opening night with an old buddy from high school. I’m also a fan of “Harry Potter”, and I also watch “The Flash.” I love these movies and shows because they aren’t like reality. The good guys always win.

Crier: What are some things you like to do with your family for fun?

Kulak: I have four kids, and we love to be outdoors. We go biking, fishing, learn woodworking, and sledding in the winter. I spent a summer in Colorado and worked at a bed and breakfast out by the Rocky Mountains. The mountains were the backyard, and literally every day was an adventure.  

Crier: If you weren’t a teacher, what would you be?

Kulak: Miserable. I love to teach because I’m good at explaining. I love teaching about the world; it’s all so fascinating.

To nominate a teacher who has made an impact in your life, click here.

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