Mr. Tiriris, better known to his students as “Mr. T” is a Lenape Biology teacher who will retire at the end of the year. Mr. T is a fantastic Biology teacher, who manages to make the class fun, despite any disinterest in the subject.  His lessons are entertaining and the labs done in class are enjoyable, educational and memorable. He encourages his students to work hard and become great people, whether or not their desired interest is biology. Mr. T works very hard to make his class engaging and interesting and we will be very sad to see him leave Lenape. I conducted an interview with him about his retirement and his time at Lenape.

How long have you been teaching at Lenape?

30 and a half years.

What was your favorite thing about teaching at Lenape?

Most importantly the students, they’re unique. I also love the science department, they’re very encouraging and inspiring. I felt privileged to be part of it for so many years.

What’s your favorite memory from teaching?

One time I was teaching energy and I was explaining Albert Einstein’s equation (E=mc^2) and I explained that E=energy and M=matter. I asked “What does c stand for?” and I gave a hint and I said “it’s the fastest thing in the universe”. A boy raised his hand quickly and said “Corvette”.

What do you plan to do once you leave?

Spend more time with my family, I’m also going to travel. I’ll pursue my extensive hobbies and entertain friends at my home.

Why did you decide to go into teaching?

I was inspired by a professor to do so.

Do you have any other comments?

Because I am leaving, I won’t being seeing this school very much anymore, and possibly won’t be thinking about it as much as I do now. But when I do, I’ll always have a happy memory to look back on.

Thank you so much for being a great teacher! We wish you the best with your retirement, Mr. T!