I still remember walking into Mr. Leoni’s classroom for the first time. The atmosphere felt so different compared to my sophomore year math class at Arrowhead High School. When the bell rang, a tall and slender figure stood ready to introduce himself. “My name is Mr. Leoni and I will be your functions teacher.” His voice was so loud and deep it almost echoed within the room. I knew immediately that this was gonna be a big change. 

I remember when Mr. Leoni would constantly call me out in the middle of class for zoning out. This was so weird to me because no teacher has ever been able to notice when I was zoning out. It was almost like he had some sort of super power that alerted him when I wasn't paying attention. In fact, I was so confused how he knew, that I would even be focused on the fact that the whole class was giggling and staring at me. 

In the past, I have really disliked strict and assertive teachers like Mr. Leoni, but for some reason I couldn't help but appreciate him and respect him. I could tell that although it may not seem like it, he really cared for every single one of his students. This realization gave me a completely different outlook on life. It allowed me to process the fact that people like my friends or family who have called me out on my downfalls before were not just trying to make me feel bad, but instead trying to motivate me because they know what my true potential is and they don't want it to go to waste.

There have been a number of times where a fellow classmate of mine would come up to me after math class and ask me why I would always get picked on by Mr. Leoni. I think they expect me to say something bad about him or about his teaching, but I have never had and I never will. 

Instead, I tell them that I like being called out by him because he knows that I’m a smart kid and he wants to get me back on track so I know what's going on. 

In a time when I needed it most in life, Mr. Leoni taught me the importance of being a tough teacher. He has pushed me to excel in math more than I can imagine and he has also taught me that math can actually be really enjoyable. I am forever thankful for the time I have shared with Mr. Leoni and the numerous things he has taught me.