Mirror: What is your role at DHS?

Charles: I serve as the Director of Comprehensive Health & PE.  I support the district’s health education, physical education, social-emotional learning, and student wellness programming across grades PK–12.  

M: Where did you go to college, and what was your major?

C: Salem State University- undergrad; Merrimack College - masters; and Salem State University - CAGS education leadership.

M: What do you like most about teaching/being in the classroom?

C: I enjoy building relationships with students and helping them develop knowledge and skills that they can use to make healthy decisions throughout their lives. 

M: What are your pet peeves in the classroom?

C: My biggest classroom pet peeve would be choosing not to give your best effort. 

M: What inspired you to become an educator? 

C: It is who I am, but my own experience as an immigrant and former English Learner inspired me to become an educator. I understand how meaningful it can be when students have teachers who believe in them, support them, and make them feel that they belong. 

M: What sets you apart from other educators?    

C: I bring experience in health and physical education, curriculum development, student wellness, and educational leadership. I also try to understand the whole student and connect classroom learning to situations students experience in everyday life. 

M: What do you like most about Dedham and its community?

C: I appreciate how welcoming the Dedham community has been. I also value the district’s commitment to students, collaboration, and creating opportunities for every student to succeed.

M: What are your hobbies? 

C: Exercising, walking my dogs, home renovation projects.

M: What is your favorite movie?

C: Rush Hour.

M: Favorite TV/streaming show?

C: I don’t have a favorite TV show, but I am currently watching “The Chi”, “Lanterns,” and “From.” 

M: Favorite book?

C: The Outsiders.

M: Favorite genre of music and favorite artist? 

C: I have a diverse playlist; I can listen to any genre. J.Cole is my favorite artist. 

M: Favorite phone app? 

C: Everfit, which is a fitness app that allows me to track my workouts and clients' workouts.

M: Favorite restaurant? 

C: Mastro's Ocean Club in Boston. 

M: If you could only watch one, which would you choose: Bruins, Celtics, Patriots, Red Sox, Revolution?

C: Patriots.

D: In one sentence, how do you feel about A.I.?

C: I believe A.I. can be a valuable tool for learning and productivity when it is used responsibly, ethically, and without replacing human judgment or creativity.