Nate Bryk knows the advantages to growing up in the communities that compose the Cuyahoga Heights Schools. “I was once in their shoes," says the 2013 graduate of Cuyahoga Heights High School about his students. “And I know what Cuyahoga Heights can do for them. I strive to give them the same inspiring experience that I had.
Bryk has taught in Cuyahoga Heights Middle School for five years. Prior to joining the district, he taught in the Maple Heights School District for one year and the Aurora City School District for one year. Currently he teaches sixth-grade social studies and English/Reading. Over his tenure at Cuyahoga Heights, “He has shown extraordinary dedication to the students and staff, going above and beyond in his commitment to excellence in education,” said fifth-grade teacher Cory Taylor. It’s why Taylor nominated him to be in the Staff Spotlight for November.
“Mr. Bryk continually engages his students in lessons with enthusiasm and creativity, exemplified by his captivating work on the Egyptian Unit, which fosters curiosity and excitement for learning among his students,” said Taylor. “He brings an unparalleled level of energy and positivity to every project he undertakes.”
Bryk says helping students to become the best versions of themselves is what he likes most about his work. “All of us have dreams, and my greatest joy is helping young people discover and achieve their own,” he noted.
Bryk credited teacher colleagues Lindsey Andreski and Linda Wilson for giving him inspiration. “They welcomed me with open arms five years ago and their leadership on our team has helped me to grow as a teacher. They are incredibly supportive and I cannot thank them enough for all that they do for me and for students on a daily basis. Learning alongside them has helped me improve immensely as an educator.”
Bryk also credited his mentor, high school teacher Michael Tartara, in whose classroom Bryk student taught while attending Cleveland State University. “He (Tartara) taught me so much about what education is all about: serving others. His passion for helping students and athletes find happiness and fulfillment through accountability and dedication has always inspired me. With that said, having him right down the hall is a blessing.”
“I work in an incredible district with ultra-talented people. Ever since my experience as a student at Cuyahoga Heights, I have always wanted to emulate teachers like Michael Tartara, John Shafer, Al Martin, and Dan D'Orazio. Their lessons and strategies for making a positive impact on others have and will always be my north star.”
Bryk is also Head Middle School Football Coach and Head Middle Schools Boys’ Basketball Coach as well as an Assistant Coach for Boys’ Varsity Basketball. He demonstrates this same commitment for helping students be successful and to grow personally on the playing field as well. He continually reminds his students to strive for excellence. “‘Good, better, best. Never let it rest. ‘Til your good is better and your better is best.’ This is on my classroom wall and it is a great reminder that we are never done growing and we are never a finished product. This brings me hope for the future and peace in the present,” noted Bryk.
Bryk grew up in Brooklyn Heights along with older brother Jeromy (Class of 2012) and younger sister Lexi (Class of 2018). His parents still reside in the city. When he’s not teaching or coaching, Bryk enjoys lifting weights and running and reading motivational books. A huge sports fan, he helps with youth sports as well, including the youth basketball players, and with the off-season workout programs for the district's football and basketball programs.
Though he’s pleased to accept the Staff Spotlight honor, Bryk considers it a credit to all the wonderful people who have supported him throughout the years. “I would not be who I am today without them. As it has been said, I simply ‘stand on the shoulders of giants.’"
