Sunday, September 15, 2019
Here are my answers to all of your questions about me. Thanks to all my sixth graders who sent in a question. I believe these are all the questions. If I missed you, let me know, and I will be happy to answer your question. Thanks!
:-) Mr. Maynard :-)
Name
Heriberto Enriquez
Comment
how did you get inspired to teaching
Answer
I was inspired to teach in large part due to my family. I grew up as the oldest of many cousins. I was able to see my younger cousins grow up and observe how inquisitive young kids are, which made teaching, a job where you work with children, appealing. Thanks for the question, Heriberto. :-)
Name
Marely Dominguez
Comment
Do you have any sisters or brothers ?
Answer
I have one brother and one sister. My brother Tim is two years younger than me. He is a lawyer who lives outside of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He is happily married to Colleen and has two young kids, Sean and Bernadette. My sister Allison is eight years younger than me. She was born when I was in second grade. She lives in Green Bay, Wisconsin. She is a nurse who is finishing graduate school to become a nurse practitioner. Thanks for the question, Marely. :-)
Name
Giselle Vazquez
Comment
What inspired you to play basketball and to be a teacher ??
Answer
I was inspired to play basketball by Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls. When I was growing up, the Bulls were really good, winning six championships, and I watched as many games as I could. I was inspired to be a teacher by my family. I grew up in a big family with many cousins and interacted with younger kids since I was a teenager. Thanks for the question, Giselle. :-)
Name
Karla Pineda
Comment
why dont you bring your dog
Answer
I would love to bring my dog to school. Unfortunately, I can’t, as some kids have allergies. Trust me when I say my dog would love to be in the classroom, though he would probably get bored having to sit all day. Thanks for the question, Karla. :-)
Name
Jonathan Cisneros
Comment
Do u have a kid?
Answer
I do not have any children, though I work with more than 100 kids each day as a teacher. Thanks for the question, Jonathan. :-)
Name
Flor Guadarrama
Comment
do you have any brothers and sisters?If so what are their names and are you older or younger than them?
Answer
I have two siblings, one brother (Tim) and one sister (Allison). I am the oldest of the three. Tim is two years younger than me, Allison is eight years younger. Thanks for the question, Flor. :-)
Name
Nolberto Contreras
Comment
how long have you had your dog?
Answer
I have had my dog for a little more than five years. I adopted him right before the start of my third year of school. This is now my eighth year teaching so it’s been five years already. Thanks for the question, Nolberto. :-)
Name
Ruben Brisuela
Comment
how old were you when you started playing basketball.
Answer
I started playing basketball when I was 5 years old. I used to watch Bulls games on television and throw a bouncy ball off the wall. I first started playing on a basketball team when I was in second grade. Thanks for the question, Ruben. :-)
Name
Jacqueline Barahona
Comment
Do you have siblings
Answer
I have two siblings, Tim and Allison. I am the oldest and best looking of the three. Just joking. Thanks for the question, Jacqueline. :-)
Name
kate meza
Comment
how many pets did you have growing up
Answer
Growing up I always had dogs. We had Rembrandt until 8th grade and then a greyhound named Country until late college. We also had a cockatiel named Mohawk. My brother got him for this Holy Communion. The bird lived almost 20 years. We also had turtles, frogs and fish at different points in time. Thanks for the question, Kate. :-)
Name
Owen Velasquez
Comment
Have you enjoyed being teacher for 7 years how does it feel like being teacher?
Answer
I have enjoyed being a teacher these past seven years. It’s a hard job but someone has to do it. In all seriousness, it is a very fulfilling job. It feels very rewarding to work with children on a daily basis. Though it can be stressful and is very demanding, teaching is a great job. Thanks for the question, Owen. :-)
Name
Diego Perez
Comment
Where are you from?.And what do you think you will do in you´re future and what do you want to work
Answer
I am from the Northwest side of Chicago, right by Portage Park. In the future I hope to keep teaching. I really can’t see myself doing anything else. But who knows? Things can change. Thanks for the question, Diego. :-)
Name
Milagros Ruiz
Comment
How old are you.
Answer
I am 37 years old. I will be 38 years old on November 26th. Thanks for the question, Milagros. :-)
Name
PAOLA JIMENEZ
Comment
how many siblings do u have?
Answer
I have two siblings, not as many as some students in the class. However, I do have a lot of cousins. I think I have 10 cousins on my Mom’s side alone. Thanks for the question, Paola. :-)
Name
Monica Cervantes
Comment
How old are you? Do you have any brothers and sisters? Are you married? Do you have any kids?
Answer
I am 37 years old (three years from being over the hill). I have one brother and one sister. I am not married. Nor do I have any kids. Thanks for the question, Monica. :-)
Name
jaselyn lopez
Comment
DO u got kids?
do u got sisters or brothers if so are u older than them or are they older then u?
Answer
I do not have kids, though my dog can act like a kid sometimes. I have one brother and one sister. I am the oldest of the three Maynard kids. Thanks for the question, Jaselyn. :-)
Name
David Soto
Comment
What i'am thinking if you like having a dog
Answer
I do like having a dog. My greyhound can be a bit dramatic and whiney, but overall, he is a very sweet dog. Thanks for the question, David. :-)
Name
Diego Esparza
Comment
when did u get you're turtles
Answer
I got my turtles about seven years ago. I thought they would make great class pets. I started off with a two and then my students started to give me theirs. At one point I had about 11 turtles, but several died. I am currently at seven turtles. Thanks for the question, Diego. :-)
Name
Yaritza Barahona
Comment
Mr.Maynard do you have sisters or brothers
Answer
I do, one brother and one sister. Thanks for the question, Yaritza. :-)
Name
Marco Ramirez
Comment
what got you into turtles? and why do you collect them
Answer
I have always been fascinated with turtles and frogs. I like how turtles look with their shells. I used to like them as a kid. I would go fishing with my Dad and get excited when we would see a turtle’s head popping out of the water. One of my friends had a turtle, and then I got a few as a kid. I collect them because they are fun to observe and do not require a lot of work as long as you have a good filter. Thanks for the question, Marco. :-)
Name
Brandon Lopez
Comment
why do you like turtles
Answer
I like turtles because they have a unique look. Their shells are colorful, and their necks are very flexible. They are also very active in the water yet chill when they bask, or lie, on the rocks. Thanks for the question, Brandon. :-)
Name
Alfredo Soto
Comment
How did you got interested in turetels
Answer
I became interested in turtles because my friend had one. I also would see them when I would go fishing. I also thought they were unique looking. They have been around since dinosaurs, which makes them the closest link to ancient times. Thanks for the question, Alfredo. :-)
Name
Anthony Hernandez
Comment
which is your oldest turtle
Answer
My oldest turtle is the big red-ear slider in the tank by the attendance sticks. That turtle actually started off really small but has grown a lot in seven years. If he was in a lake or pond, I bet he would be much bigger. Thanks for the question, Anthony. :-)
Name
Jasmin Rodriguez
Comment
Do you enjoy teching? and what have you learn?
Answer
I love teaching. It is a fun, challenging and meaningful job. Working with kids on a daily basis is always an adventure. No two days are the same. I have learned that you have to be flexible when you’re a teacher. You have to have an idea of what you want to accomplish yet realize that things can change quickly. You have to adjust on the fly. Thanks for the question, Jasmin. :-)
Name
Salvador Martinez
Comment
Why did you decided to become a teacher?
Answer
I decided to be a teacher because working with children was something that really started to intrigue me in college. Also, I found my other jobs in writing not to be as worthwhile. I thought that teaching would be a great opportunity to meet a lot of people and hopefully do something positive and good in the world. Thanks for the question, Salvador. :-)
Name
Emily Lopez
Comment
how old are you?
Answer
I am 37 years old, though I like to believe that I am still 21. Thanks for the question, Emily. :-)
Name
Maritza serrano
Comment
You are very cool
Answer
Thanks! I hope you feel that way in June, Maritza. Thanks for the nice comment. :-)
Name
Kevin Rodriguez
Comment
Why do you have so much turtle
Answer
I blame my former students who kept giving me their own turtles that they no longer wanted (just kidding). I started with two turtles, and it has just grown from there. At one point at my old school I had four 20-gallon tanks of turtles. Now I am at three. Thanks for the question, Kevin. :-)
Name
Ruby Galllarzo
Comment
how log hav you Ben tehore
Answer
I have been a teacher for 7 years. This is my eighth year. Time flies when you’re having fun. Thanks for the question, Ruby. :-)
Name
Marely Jaime, Perez
Comment
what do you do when you get home?
Answer
I usually walk my dog first thing. I will then have dinner and usually do some work for the next school day. I try to run every night. I like to listen to podcasts. I really don’t watch much television any more. Sometimes I will play basketball at Hernandez with other teachers and staff. Thanks for the question, Marely. :-)
Name
Jennifer Santiago
Comment
what do you like to do in your free time ?
Answer
I like to run and play basketball. I like to hang out with my niece and nephew whenever they are in Chicago. I like to walk my dog and talk to my parents on the phone. I also like to read and write, and listen to podcasts. I also collect old sports figures named Starting Lineups and even make my own custom figures when I have time. Thanks for the question, Jennifer. :-)
Name
Emelyn Hernandez
Comment
When is your birth day and what is your favorite color
Answer
My birthday is November 26th. I was a Thanksgiving baby who was born on Thanksgiving Day, 1981. My favorite color is blue, the best color around. Thanks for your question, Emelyn. :-)
Name
vega natalie
Comment
when did you start wanting to be a teacher ? do you like your job ?
Answer
I started wanting to become a teacher just as I was finishing college. I was getting a degree in journalism but started to think about teaching. I almost switched to teaching, but it would have been three more years of college at the time. I ended up working for about 5 years before going back to graduate school at UIC for two years to become a teacher. I love my job because I get to work with great kids like you. Thanks for the question, Natalie. :-)
Name
Max murillo
Comment
whats your favorite animal???
Answer
My favorite animals are turtles and dogs, which are probably not that surprising. Besides them, I have always liked frogs because they can live in and out of water. Thanks for the question, Max. :-)
Name
Larry Guzman
Comment
Are you an only child?
Answer
I was an only child for the first 2½ years of my life, and then my brother was born. I also have a sister. Thanks for the question, Larry. :-)
Name
miguel perez
Comment
how many brother and sister you have
Answer
I have one of each, a brother named Tim and a sister named Allison. Thanks for the question, Miguel. :-)
Name
Allani Hernandez
Comment
Why do like turtles so much?
Answer
I just think they are so cool looking with their colored shells and flexible necks and flappers. While turtles are tough, they are much nicer than other reptiles like snakes and alligators. Turtles are very fun to observe as they have many types of personalities. Thanks for the question, Allani. :-)
Name
ashley sanchez
Comment
where were you born?
Answer
I was born in Chicago and have lived here for about 32 of my 37 years on Earth. I don’t remember which hospital I was born. It might have been Resurrection on the Northwest side of Chicago. I do know that I was born on Thanksgiving Day, 1981. Thanks for the question, Ashley. :-)
Name
Anahi valladares
Comment
ive never been fishing and looking at your picture it looks fun i just want to say was it fun when u went fishing with your dad
Answer
Fishing can be very fun. It requires a lot of patience. Some days you catch fish every time you cast the line. Other days you might not catch anything. It is very peaceful to me because you get to sit back and relax in nature. It is also a great opportunity to spend time with my Dad, who is a great fisherman who taught me everything I know about fishing. We also like to catch and release, which means we never keep any fish we keep. There is nothing better than the feeling of reeling in and fighting a big fish on the other end of the line. Thanks for the question, Anahi. If you ever get the chance to go fishing, definitely do so! :-)
Name
jennifer pina
Comment
mr maynard i like the turtles they are cute
Answer
Thanks, Jennifer. I will let them know you think they are cute. :-)
Name
Angel Garcia
Comment
why does your painting on the wall have blue bugers.
Answer
Ha ha! I hung it outside my classroom when I was teaching eighth grade, and some students stamped my face with blue paw prints. So while they may look like boogers, I can assure you they are not. Thanks for the gross question, Angel. :-)
Name
jesus mendoza
Comment
what's your favorite place to visit?
Answer
Great question. I would say my parents’ house in Chicago when I get the chance to go there. In Chicago I would say this cool toy store called Quake Collectibles. Outside of Chicago I would say South Dakota. I went there in eighth grade, and it was a beautiful state. I have only been out of the United States one time. I went to Ireland last winter break for my Mom’s 60th birthday. It was a breathtaking country. Thanks for the question, Jesus. :-)
Name
Edgar Contreras
Comment
Hi :D
Answer
Hey Edgar! Hope all is well. Thanks for checking in. :-)
Name
Brisia Sanchez
Comment
What changed your mind to becoming a Teacher and not a Basketball Player?
Answer
I got to high school and was not as good as I thought. I realized that I wasn’t going to play in the NBA, though I still love to play and coach basketball. I never thought that I would be a teacher when I was a kid or in high school. My feelings started to change in college, and I eventually decided to switch careers when I was about 28 years old. I went to UIC and got my master’s degree in teaching in 2012. I have been teaching ever since. Thanks for the question, Brisia. :-)
Name
anthony caballero
Comment
are you the only child
Answer
I was an only child for a bit (about 2½ years) before my brother and later my sister was born. So I am the happy older brother of two great siblings. Thanks for the question, Anthony. :-)
Name
Angel Perez
Comment
how did u start to get into reading what do u like about reading
Answer
I have always liked to read, especially about sports. I once wanted to be a sports journalist but that changed. The thing I like about reading is that you get to go to different worlds and meet different people. It is a way to escape the real world and observe how other’s write and develop stories as well. Thanks for the question, Angel. :-)
Name
Danielys Crespo
Comment
what age did you starter to be a teacher
Answer
I would say about age 21 or 22. It was late in my college career at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. That interest grew during the next six or seven years, and I finally decided to go to graduate school at UIC for teaching when I was 28 years old. It was a great decision. Thanks for the question, Danielys. :-)
Name
Dylan Navarro
Comment
Why do you have long hair and heyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy
Answer
I used to always have short hair. I would get the buzz cut. However, I grew out my hair about five summers ago. It took a long time to grow, and I liked how it looked. I didn’t want to cut it after taking so long for it to grow. Thanks for the question, Dylan, and heyyyyyyyyyyy as well. :-)
Name
Davion Bates
Comment
Hello, Mr. Maynard. I'd like to ask you not why you have so many turtles or more why do you like turtles so much? Is it personal or do you just have them? Thanks for reading this if you did! Have a good day!
Answer
I like turtles for many reasons. They are cool to look at. They catch the eye with their shells and many colors. They have different personalities. Some are aggressive, some are really chill. They are fun to observe. They are the closest living relatives to the dinosaurs. Unlike other reptiles (like snakes and alligators), they are much nicer, though you don’t want to get a turtle mad. They also live a long time, and are worthwhile pets as long as you are willing to care for them. Thanks for the question, Davion. :-)
Name
julian Gonzalez
Comment
why did you like to play basket ball when you where yonger
Answer
I like basketball because it is the best team sport. You get to play with four other players. When everyone is connected and making good passes, it is very fun. It is also great because you can still be an individual on the court. I liked basketball so much as a kid because the Chicago Bulls were so good. Michael Jordan was on the team, as well as Scottie Pippen, and the Bulls won six championships in eight years from when I was in third grade to a sophomore (second year) in high school. I was hooked on the game at a young age. Thanks for the question, Julian. :-)
Name
Edwin Serrano
Comment
Did you went to Tonti.
Answer
I did not go to Tonti for elementary school. I went to St. Bart’s, a Catholic school on the Northwest side. I went to St. Patrick High School and then the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign for college. I went to the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) to become a teacher. I have never been to Tonti, which is weird because I coach basketball at HMS. We have never played them. Maybe I will get to go there one day as a coach of my team. Thanks for the question, Edwin. :-)
Name
Jairo Estrada
Comment
Did you ever like soccer.
Answer
I never really played soccer as a kid. It was not that popular where I lived as a kid. However, as I got older, I realized how difficult of a sport it is. I enjoy watching soccer in person. It is a bit hard to watch for me on television. It is an incredible sport. I love to walk my dog at Pasteur Park and watch all the adults and kids play soccer on the big field there. In two years I have been amazed how good and dedicated HMS students are at/to soccer. Thanks for the question, Jairo. :-)
Name
Hillary Santana
Comment
where are your from and what is your whole name.
Answer
I am from Chicago. I grew up on the Northwest side of the city in a neighborhood called Portage Park. It is about a 20-25 minute car ride to Wrigley Field, where the Cubs play. My full name is Christopher Matthew James Maynard. Matthew is my middle name. James is my confirmation name, which I chose as an eighth grader. Thanks for the question, Hillary. :-)
Name
Dereck De Leora
Comment
Do you draw?
Answer
I am not a great drawer. When I was younger, I didn’t have much confidence in my drawing abilities. As I got older, I started to like to draw more. I had a really good art teacher my sophomore year of high school who made me believe that I could draw. I don’t really draw in my free time, though I feel I can draw well if I take my time and have something to look at. Thanks for the question, Dereck. :-)
Name
diego niz
Comment
why do you like turtles?
Answer
I like turtles because they can live in and out of water. They are unique looking with their shells. They have many different personalities. They are a fun pet to have. If you have a good filter, you can really create a great tank for the turtles to live in. Thanks for the question, Diego. :-)
Name
isac cuellar
Comment
how many turtle do you want to have
Answer
I am good at seven turtles right now. I have had as many as 11 as one point. Having three tanks can be a lot of work, especially when you have to clean them. If I had any more, I would probably have to use a fourth tank. Thanks for the question, Isac. :-)
Name
perla martinez
Comment
i like your class
Answer
Thanks, Perla. I hope you like it all year long. :-)
Name
Anthony Navarro
Comment
When did you feel good to bring your turtles to the school?
Answer
I decided to get class turtles before my second year of teaching. I had tiny dwarf frogs my first year of teaching. They were fun but not as engaging for the students. I started with one tank and two turtles and then expanded to as many as four tanks of turtles. I am glad that I have turtles as class pets. You guys and girls really enjoy them, and it’s nice to have another living element in the room. Thanks for the question, Anthony. :-)
Name
Angel Medina
Comment
Do you have a family
Answer
I do not have my own family. I am not married. I do not have kids. I am very close to my parents, brother and sister. My brother has two kids. I love being a fun uncle to my nephew Sean and my niece Birdie. They are 5 and 3 years old, respectively. They are a lot of fun. I wish I could see them every day, but they live about an hour and a half away in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Any time I can see them, I take advantage of the opportunity. Thanks for the question, Angel. :-)
Name
Cesar Beltran
Comment
what is your favorite animal
Answer
I would say a tie between turtles and dogs. Actually, I would probably rank dogs a bit higher because they are much closer to being human than turtles. Dogs truly are man’s best friend, and they are incredibly loyal. I also like frogs because they can live in and out of water. Frogs can be very quick or very chill. Thanks for the question, Cesar. :-)
Name
Christina Torres
Comment
How much money do you spend on your turtles.
Answer
I don’t spend as much as I used to. Their food can cost as much as $20 and usually last about two months. I will also buy filter cartridges, which are about $10. Turtles can cost anywhere from $10 to $40 dollars, depending on the type you want. My red ear sliders were about $25 each while the African sideneck turtles were like $35 or $40. Overall, having a turtle as a pet requires some money but is not as expensive as many other reptiles. Thanks for the question, Christina. :-)
Name
ulises campuzano
Comment
do you have more pets
Answer
I also have a dog, a greyhound named Garrett. I used to have some tadpoles that became frogs, but they all passed on to a better place. Thanks for the question, Ulises. :-)
Name
Hillary Nunez
Comment
why do you look so diferent in that pictures
Answer
I look so different from the picture of me in my room because my hair was much shorter than. That picture is probably five years old. I am also wearing a hat in the picture. If I wore a hat in class now, I would look much closer to the picture. Thanks for the question, Hillary. :-)
Name
raul rodriguez
Comment
do you have any other pets
Answer
I have just a dog named Garrett. He is a 7-year-old greyhound (running dog). He weighs about 75 pounds and is very muscular. I would like to get another dog someday, but I don’t have enough room at the moment. Thanks ro the question, Raul. :-)
Name
Sebastian Lara
Comment
do you have kids if so how many
Answer
I do not have any kids. I am a proud uncle of a nephew Sean, who is kindergarten, and a niece named Bernadette, who is in pre-kindergarten. Sean and Bernadette are my younger brother Tim’s kids. Thanks for the question, Sebastian. :-)
Name
Helen Vega
Comment
how YOUNG are you? what car do you have?
Answer
I am 37 years young. I drive a Honda-CRV. I bought it about two years ago. It is a perfect car for me, not too small and just big enough to bring my dog Garrett around Chicago. Thanks for the question, Helen. :-)
Name
Alan Lopez
Comment
Do you have kids
Answer
I do not have my own kids, unless you count my 100+ students as kids. Just joking. Thanks for the question, Alan. :-)
Name
Getsamany Avina
Comment
do you have more pets ?
Answer
I have just a dog besides the turtles. Thanks for the question, Getsamany. :-)
Name
Ashley Garcia
Comment
Do most students find your class interesting and fun?
Answer
I hope so! Let me know. That is my goal, to make reading interesting and fun. I try to include my humor to break up the long day for my students. Thanks for the question, Ashley. :-)
Name
Giselle Leon
Comment
What's up with your hair????bro
Answer
It’s awesome, isn’t it? Thanks for the question, Giselle. :-)
Name
martha montoya
Comment
i think you look better with your tiny pony tail and i like the cuties of the turtles
Answer
Thanks for the fashion tip, Martha. Maybe I will change it up throughout the year. :-)
Name
Jesse Ortega
Comment
my brother was with you last year his name is Agustin Ortega
Answer
Agustin was awesome. I knew you looked familiar, Jesse. Are you as good of a soccer player as your brother? I look forward to getting to know you, Jesse. :-)
Name
:)Jetzamany Anacleto:)
Comment
How old are you Mr.Maynard?? AND What's Up with your haircut??;(
Answer
I am 37 years old. My haircut is what’s up. Just joking. I like it. It took a long time to grow out and I don’t think I would have the patience to grow it out again. Thus, it will probably stay for a while longer. Thanks for the question, Jetzamany. :-)
Name
Edan Gonzaalez
Comment
how old are you
Answer
I am 37 years old and forever young at heart. Thanks for the question, Edan. :-)
Name
Letnia Garcia
Comment
Do you have kids?Are you married?What do you like to do on your free time?Do you like school? Do you like cats and dogs?Do you hate when a student talk when ur talking?
Answer
I have no kids or wife. I like to run, play basketball, walk my dog and hang out with nephew and niece in my free time. I do like school. I didn’t when I was a kid. I love it more as a teacher. I am more of a dog person than a cat, though one of my old roommates had a cat. I am more tolerant of cats than I used to be. It can be annoying when students talk when I am instructing. I don’t mind talking as long as my students are focused. Thanks for the questions, Letnia. :-)
Name
angel aguilar
Comment
i feel like this class and going to learn well
Answer
I hope you learn a lot this year, have much fun and become a reader for life. I look forward to working with you, Angel. Thanks for the question. :-)
Here are my answers to all of your questions about me. Thanks to all my sixth graders who sent in a question. I believe these are all the questions. If I missed you, let me know, and I will be happy to answer your question. Thanks!
:-) Mr. Maynard :-)
Name
Heriberto Enriquez
Comment
how did you get inspired to teaching
Answer
I was inspired to teach in large part due to my family. I grew up as the oldest of many cousins. I was able to see my younger cousins grow up and observe how inquisitive young kids are, which made teaching, a job where you work with children, appealing. Thanks for the question, Heriberto. :-)
Name
Marely Dominguez
Comment
Do you have any sisters or brothers ?
Answer
I have one brother and one sister. My brother Tim is two years younger than me. He is a lawyer who lives outside of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He is happily married to Colleen and has two young kids, Sean and Bernadette. My sister Allison is eight years younger than me. She was born when I was in second grade. She lives in Green Bay, Wisconsin. She is a nurse who is finishing graduate school to become a nurse practitioner. Thanks for the question, Marely. :-)
Name
Giselle Vazquez
Comment
What inspired you to play basketball and to be a teacher ??
Answer
I was inspired to play basketball by Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls. When I was growing up, the Bulls were really good, winning six championships, and I watched as many games as I could. I was inspired to be a teacher by my family. I grew up in a big family with many cousins and interacted with younger kids since I was a teenager. Thanks for the question, Giselle. :-)
Name
Karla Pineda
Comment
why dont you bring your dog
Answer
I would love to bring my dog to school. Unfortunately, I can’t, as some kids have allergies. Trust me when I say my dog would love to be in the classroom, though he would probably get bored having to sit all day. Thanks for the question, Karla. :-)
Name
Jonathan Cisneros
Comment
Do u have a kid?
Answer
I do not have any children, though I work with more than 100 kids each day as a teacher. Thanks for the question, Jonathan. :-)
Name
Flor Guadarrama
Comment
do you have any brothers and sisters?If so what are their names and are you older or younger than them?
Answer
I have two siblings, one brother (Tim) and one sister (Allison). I am the oldest of the three. Tim is two years younger than me, Allison is eight years younger. Thanks for the question, Flor. :-)
Name
Nolberto Contreras
Comment
how long have you had your dog?
Answer
I have had my dog for a little more than five years. I adopted him right before the start of my third year of school. This is now my eighth year teaching so it’s been five years already. Thanks for the question, Nolberto. :-)
Name
Ruben Brisuela
Comment
how old were you when you started playing basketball.
Answer
I started playing basketball when I was 5 years old. I used to watch Bulls games on television and throw a bouncy ball off the wall. I first started playing on a basketball team when I was in second grade. Thanks for the question, Ruben. :-)
Name
Jacqueline Barahona
Comment
Do you have siblings
Answer
I have two siblings, Tim and Allison. I am the oldest and best looking of the three. Just joking. Thanks for the question, Jacqueline. :-)
Name
kate meza
Comment
how many pets did you have growing up
Answer
Growing up I always had dogs. We had Rembrandt until 8th grade and then a greyhound named Country until late college. We also had a cockatiel named Mohawk. My brother got him for this Holy Communion. The bird lived almost 20 years. We also had turtles, frogs and fish at different points in time. Thanks for the question, Kate. :-)
Name
Owen Velasquez
Comment
Have you enjoyed being teacher for 7 years how does it feel like being teacher?
Answer
I have enjoyed being a teacher these past seven years. It’s a hard job but someone has to do it. In all seriousness, it is a very fulfilling job. It feels very rewarding to work with children on a daily basis. Though it can be stressful and is very demanding, teaching is a great job. Thanks for the question, Owen. :-)
Name
Diego Perez
Comment
Where are you from?.And what do you think you will do in you´re future and what do you want to work
Answer
I am from the Northwest side of Chicago, right by Portage Park. In the future I hope to keep teaching. I really can’t see myself doing anything else. But who knows? Things can change. Thanks for the question, Diego. :-)
Name
Milagros Ruiz
Comment
How old are you.
Answer
I am 37 years old. I will be 38 years old on November 26th. Thanks for the question, Milagros. :-)
Name
PAOLA JIMENEZ
Comment
how many siblings do u have?
Answer
I have two siblings, not as many as some students in the class. However, I do have a lot of cousins. I think I have 10 cousins on my Mom’s side alone. Thanks for the question, Paola. :-)
Name
Monica Cervantes
Comment
How old are you? Do you have any brothers and sisters? Are you married? Do you have any kids?
Answer
I am 37 years old (three years from being over the hill). I have one brother and one sister. I am not married. Nor do I have any kids. Thanks for the question, Monica. :-)
Name
jaselyn lopez
Comment
DO u got kids?
do u got sisters or brothers if so are u older than them or are they older then u?
Answer
I do not have kids, though my dog can act like a kid sometimes. I have one brother and one sister. I am the oldest of the three Maynard kids. Thanks for the question, Jaselyn. :-)
Name
David Soto
Comment
What i'am thinking if you like having a dog
Answer
I do like having a dog. My greyhound can be a bit dramatic and whiney, but overall, he is a very sweet dog. Thanks for the question, David. :-)
Name
Diego Esparza
Comment
when did u get you're turtles
Answer
I got my turtles about seven years ago. I thought they would make great class pets. I started off with a two and then my students started to give me theirs. At one point I had about 11 turtles, but several died. I am currently at seven turtles. Thanks for the question, Diego. :-)
Name
Yaritza Barahona
Comment
Mr.Maynard do you have sisters or brothers
Answer
I do, one brother and one sister. Thanks for the question, Yaritza. :-)
Name
Marco Ramirez
Comment
what got you into turtles? and why do you collect them
Answer
I have always been fascinated with turtles and frogs. I like how turtles look with their shells. I used to like them as a kid. I would go fishing with my Dad and get excited when we would see a turtle’s head popping out of the water. One of my friends had a turtle, and then I got a few as a kid. I collect them because they are fun to observe and do not require a lot of work as long as you have a good filter. Thanks for the question, Marco. :-)
Name
Brandon Lopez
Comment
why do you like turtles
Answer
I like turtles because they have a unique look. Their shells are colorful, and their necks are very flexible. They are also very active in the water yet chill when they bask, or lie, on the rocks. Thanks for the question, Brandon. :-)
Name
Alfredo Soto
Comment
How did you got interested in turetels
Answer
I became interested in turtles because my friend had one. I also would see them when I would go fishing. I also thought they were unique looking. They have been around since dinosaurs, which makes them the closest link to ancient times. Thanks for the question, Alfredo. :-)
Name
Anthony Hernandez
Comment
which is your oldest turtle
Answer
My oldest turtle is the big red-ear slider in the tank by the attendance sticks. That turtle actually started off really small but has grown a lot in seven years. If he was in a lake or pond, I bet he would be much bigger. Thanks for the question, Anthony. :-)
Name
Jasmin Rodriguez
Comment
Do you enjoy teching? and what have you learn?
Answer
I love teaching. It is a fun, challenging and meaningful job. Working with kids on a daily basis is always an adventure. No two days are the same. I have learned that you have to be flexible when you’re a teacher. You have to have an idea of what you want to accomplish yet realize that things can change quickly. You have to adjust on the fly. Thanks for the question, Jasmin. :-)
Name
Salvador Martinez
Comment
Why did you decided to become a teacher?
Answer
I decided to be a teacher because working with children was something that really started to intrigue me in college. Also, I found my other jobs in writing not to be as worthwhile. I thought that teaching would be a great opportunity to meet a lot of people and hopefully do something positive and good in the world. Thanks for the question, Salvador. :-)
Name
Emily Lopez
Comment
how old are you?
Answer
I am 37 years old, though I like to believe that I am still 21. Thanks for the question, Emily. :-)
Name
Maritza serrano
Comment
You are very cool
Answer
Thanks! I hope you feel that way in June, Maritza. Thanks for the nice comment. :-)
Name
Kevin Rodriguez
Comment
Why do you have so much turtle
Answer
I blame my former students who kept giving me their own turtles that they no longer wanted (just kidding). I started with two turtles, and it has just grown from there. At one point at my old school I had four 20-gallon tanks of turtles. Now I am at three. Thanks for the question, Kevin. :-)
Name
Ruby Galllarzo
Comment
how log hav you Ben tehore
Answer
I have been a teacher for 7 years. This is my eighth year. Time flies when you’re having fun. Thanks for the question, Ruby. :-)
Name
Marely Jaime, Perez
Comment
what do you do when you get home?
Answer
I usually walk my dog first thing. I will then have dinner and usually do some work for the next school day. I try to run every night. I like to listen to podcasts. I really don’t watch much television any more. Sometimes I will play basketball at Hernandez with other teachers and staff. Thanks for the question, Marely. :-)
Name
Jennifer Santiago
Comment
what do you like to do in your free time ?
Answer
I like to run and play basketball. I like to hang out with my niece and nephew whenever they are in Chicago. I like to walk my dog and talk to my parents on the phone. I also like to read and write, and listen to podcasts. I also collect old sports figures named Starting Lineups and even make my own custom figures when I have time. Thanks for the question, Jennifer. :-)
Name
Emelyn Hernandez
Comment
When is your birth day and what is your favorite color
Answer
My birthday is November 26th. I was a Thanksgiving baby who was born on Thanksgiving Day, 1981. My favorite color is blue, the best color around. Thanks for your question, Emelyn. :-)
Name
vega natalie
Comment
when did you start wanting to be a teacher ? do you like your job ?
Answer
I started wanting to become a teacher just as I was finishing college. I was getting a degree in journalism but started to think about teaching. I almost switched to teaching, but it would have been three more years of college at the time. I ended up working for about 5 years before going back to graduate school at UIC for two years to become a teacher. I love my job because I get to work with great kids like you. Thanks for the question, Natalie. :-)
Name
Max murillo
Comment
whats your favorite animal???
Answer
My favorite animals are turtles and dogs, which are probably not that surprising. Besides them, I have always liked frogs because they can live in and out of water. Thanks for the question, Max. :-)
Name
Larry Guzman
Comment
Are you an only child?
Answer
I was an only child for the first 2½ years of my life, and then my brother was born. I also have a sister. Thanks for the question, Larry. :-)
Name
miguel perez
Comment
how many brother and sister you have
Answer
I have one of each, a brother named Tim and a sister named Allison. Thanks for the question, Miguel. :-)
Name
Allani Hernandez
Comment
Why do like turtles so much?
Answer
I just think they are so cool looking with their colored shells and flexible necks and flappers. While turtles are tough, they are much nicer than other reptiles like snakes and alligators. Turtles are very fun to observe as they have many types of personalities. Thanks for the question, Allani. :-)
Name
ashley sanchez
Comment
where were you born?
Answer
I was born in Chicago and have lived here for about 32 of my 37 years on Earth. I don’t remember which hospital I was born. It might have been Resurrection on the Northwest side of Chicago. I do know that I was born on Thanksgiving Day, 1981. Thanks for the question, Ashley. :-)
Name
Anahi valladares
Comment
ive never been fishing and looking at your picture it looks fun i just want to say was it fun when u went fishing with your dad
Answer
Fishing can be very fun. It requires a lot of patience. Some days you catch fish every time you cast the line. Other days you might not catch anything. It is very peaceful to me because you get to sit back and relax in nature. It is also a great opportunity to spend time with my Dad, who is a great fisherman who taught me everything I know about fishing. We also like to catch and release, which means we never keep any fish we keep. There is nothing better than the feeling of reeling in and fighting a big fish on the other end of the line. Thanks for the question, Anahi. If you ever get the chance to go fishing, definitely do so! :-)
Name
jennifer pina
Comment
mr maynard i like the turtles they are cute
Answer
Thanks, Jennifer. I will let them know you think they are cute. :-)
Name
Angel Garcia
Comment
why does your painting on the wall have blue bugers.
Answer
Ha ha! I hung it outside my classroom when I was teaching eighth grade, and some students stamped my face with blue paw prints. So while they may look like boogers, I can assure you they are not. Thanks for the gross question, Angel. :-)
Name
jesus mendoza
Comment
what's your favorite place to visit?
Answer
Great question. I would say my parents’ house in Chicago when I get the chance to go there. In Chicago I would say this cool toy store called Quake Collectibles. Outside of Chicago I would say South Dakota. I went there in eighth grade, and it was a beautiful state. I have only been out of the United States one time. I went to Ireland last winter break for my Mom’s 60th birthday. It was a breathtaking country. Thanks for the question, Jesus. :-)
Name
Edgar Contreras
Comment
Hi :D
Answer
Hey Edgar! Hope all is well. Thanks for checking in. :-)
Name
Brisia Sanchez
Comment
What changed your mind to becoming a Teacher and not a Basketball Player?
Answer
I got to high school and was not as good as I thought. I realized that I wasn’t going to play in the NBA, though I still love to play and coach basketball. I never thought that I would be a teacher when I was a kid or in high school. My feelings started to change in college, and I eventually decided to switch careers when I was about 28 years old. I went to UIC and got my master’s degree in teaching in 2012. I have been teaching ever since. Thanks for the question, Brisia. :-)
Name
anthony caballero
Comment
are you the only child
Answer
I was an only child for a bit (about 2½ years) before my brother and later my sister was born. So I am the happy older brother of two great siblings. Thanks for the question, Anthony. :-)
Name
Angel Perez
Comment
how did u start to get into reading what do u like about reading
Answer
I have always liked to read, especially about sports. I once wanted to be a sports journalist but that changed. The thing I like about reading is that you get to go to different worlds and meet different people. It is a way to escape the real world and observe how other’s write and develop stories as well. Thanks for the question, Angel. :-)
Name
Danielys Crespo
Comment
what age did you starter to be a teacher
Answer
I would say about age 21 or 22. It was late in my college career at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. That interest grew during the next six or seven years, and I finally decided to go to graduate school at UIC for teaching when I was 28 years old. It was a great decision. Thanks for the question, Danielys. :-)
Name
Dylan Navarro
Comment
Why do you have long hair and heyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy
Answer
I used to always have short hair. I would get the buzz cut. However, I grew out my hair about five summers ago. It took a long time to grow, and I liked how it looked. I didn’t want to cut it after taking so long for it to grow. Thanks for the question, Dylan, and heyyyyyyyyyyy as well. :-)
Name
Davion Bates
Comment
Hello, Mr. Maynard. I'd like to ask you not why you have so many turtles or more why do you like turtles so much? Is it personal or do you just have them? Thanks for reading this if you did! Have a good day!
Answer
I like turtles for many reasons. They are cool to look at. They catch the eye with their shells and many colors. They have different personalities. Some are aggressive, some are really chill. They are fun to observe. They are the closest living relatives to the dinosaurs. Unlike other reptiles (like snakes and alligators), they are much nicer, though you don’t want to get a turtle mad. They also live a long time, and are worthwhile pets as long as you are willing to care for them. Thanks for the question, Davion. :-)
Name
julian Gonzalez
Comment
why did you like to play basket ball when you where yonger
Answer
I like basketball because it is the best team sport. You get to play with four other players. When everyone is connected and making good passes, it is very fun. It is also great because you can still be an individual on the court. I liked basketball so much as a kid because the Chicago Bulls were so good. Michael Jordan was on the team, as well as Scottie Pippen, and the Bulls won six championships in eight years from when I was in third grade to a sophomore (second year) in high school. I was hooked on the game at a young age. Thanks for the question, Julian. :-)
Name
Edwin Serrano
Comment
Did you went to Tonti.
Answer
I did not go to Tonti for elementary school. I went to St. Bart’s, a Catholic school on the Northwest side. I went to St. Patrick High School and then the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign for college. I went to the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) to become a teacher. I have never been to Tonti, which is weird because I coach basketball at HMS. We have never played them. Maybe I will get to go there one day as a coach of my team. Thanks for the question, Edwin. :-)
Name
Jairo Estrada
Comment
Did you ever like soccer.
Answer
I never really played soccer as a kid. It was not that popular where I lived as a kid. However, as I got older, I realized how difficult of a sport it is. I enjoy watching soccer in person. It is a bit hard to watch for me on television. It is an incredible sport. I love to walk my dog at Pasteur Park and watch all the adults and kids play soccer on the big field there. In two years I have been amazed how good and dedicated HMS students are at/to soccer. Thanks for the question, Jairo. :-)
Name
Hillary Santana
Comment
where are your from and what is your whole name.
Answer
I am from Chicago. I grew up on the Northwest side of the city in a neighborhood called Portage Park. It is about a 20-25 minute car ride to Wrigley Field, where the Cubs play. My full name is Christopher Matthew James Maynard. Matthew is my middle name. James is my confirmation name, which I chose as an eighth grader. Thanks for the question, Hillary. :-)
Name
Dereck De Leora
Comment
Do you draw?
Answer
I am not a great drawer. When I was younger, I didn’t have much confidence in my drawing abilities. As I got older, I started to like to draw more. I had a really good art teacher my sophomore year of high school who made me believe that I could draw. I don’t really draw in my free time, though I feel I can draw well if I take my time and have something to look at. Thanks for the question, Dereck. :-)
Name
diego niz
Comment
why do you like turtles?
Answer
I like turtles because they can live in and out of water. They are unique looking with their shells. They have many different personalities. They are a fun pet to have. If you have a good filter, you can really create a great tank for the turtles to live in. Thanks for the question, Diego. :-)
Name
isac cuellar
Comment
how many turtle do you want to have
Answer
I am good at seven turtles right now. I have had as many as 11 as one point. Having three tanks can be a lot of work, especially when you have to clean them. If I had any more, I would probably have to use a fourth tank. Thanks for the question, Isac. :-)
Name
perla martinez
Comment
i like your class
Answer
Thanks, Perla. I hope you like it all year long. :-)
Name
Anthony Navarro
Comment
When did you feel good to bring your turtles to the school?
Answer
I decided to get class turtles before my second year of teaching. I had tiny dwarf frogs my first year of teaching. They were fun but not as engaging for the students. I started with one tank and two turtles and then expanded to as many as four tanks of turtles. I am glad that I have turtles as class pets. You guys and girls really enjoy them, and it’s nice to have another living element in the room. Thanks for the question, Anthony. :-)
Name
Angel Medina
Comment
Do you have a family
Answer
I do not have my own family. I am not married. I do not have kids. I am very close to my parents, brother and sister. My brother has two kids. I love being a fun uncle to my nephew Sean and my niece Birdie. They are 5 and 3 years old, respectively. They are a lot of fun. I wish I could see them every day, but they live about an hour and a half away in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Any time I can see them, I take advantage of the opportunity. Thanks for the question, Angel. :-)
Name
Cesar Beltran
Comment
what is your favorite animal
Answer
I would say a tie between turtles and dogs. Actually, I would probably rank dogs a bit higher because they are much closer to being human than turtles. Dogs truly are man’s best friend, and they are incredibly loyal. I also like frogs because they can live in and out of water. Frogs can be very quick or very chill. Thanks for the question, Cesar. :-)
Name
Christina Torres
Comment
How much money do you spend on your turtles.
Answer
I don’t spend as much as I used to. Their food can cost as much as $20 and usually last about two months. I will also buy filter cartridges, which are about $10. Turtles can cost anywhere from $10 to $40 dollars, depending on the type you want. My red ear sliders were about $25 each while the African sideneck turtles were like $35 or $40. Overall, having a turtle as a pet requires some money but is not as expensive as many other reptiles. Thanks for the question, Christina. :-)
Name
ulises campuzano
Comment
do you have more pets
Answer
I also have a dog, a greyhound named Garrett. I used to have some tadpoles that became frogs, but they all passed on to a better place. Thanks for the question, Ulises. :-)
Name
Hillary Nunez
Comment
why do you look so diferent in that pictures
Answer
I look so different from the picture of me in my room because my hair was much shorter than. That picture is probably five years old. I am also wearing a hat in the picture. If I wore a hat in class now, I would look much closer to the picture. Thanks for the question, Hillary. :-)
Name
raul rodriguez
Comment
do you have any other pets
Answer
I have just a dog named Garrett. He is a 7-year-old greyhound (running dog). He weighs about 75 pounds and is very muscular. I would like to get another dog someday, but I don’t have enough room at the moment. Thanks ro the question, Raul. :-)
Name
Sebastian Lara
Comment
do you have kids if so how many
Answer
I do not have any kids. I am a proud uncle of a nephew Sean, who is kindergarten, and a niece named Bernadette, who is in pre-kindergarten. Sean and Bernadette are my younger brother Tim’s kids. Thanks for the question, Sebastian. :-)
Name
Helen Vega
Comment
how YOUNG are you? what car do you have?
Answer
I am 37 years young. I drive a Honda-CRV. I bought it about two years ago. It is a perfect car for me, not too small and just big enough to bring my dog Garrett around Chicago. Thanks for the question, Helen. :-)
Name
Alan Lopez
Comment
Do you have kids
Answer
I do not have my own kids, unless you count my 100+ students as kids. Just joking. Thanks for the question, Alan. :-)
Name
Getsamany Avina
Comment
do you have more pets ?
Answer
I have just a dog besides the turtles. Thanks for the question, Getsamany. :-)
Name
Ashley Garcia
Comment
Do most students find your class interesting and fun?
Answer
I hope so! Let me know. That is my goal, to make reading interesting and fun. I try to include my humor to break up the long day for my students. Thanks for the question, Ashley. :-)
Name
Giselle Leon
Comment
What's up with your hair????bro
Answer
It’s awesome, isn’t it? Thanks for the question, Giselle. :-)
Name
martha montoya
Comment
i think you look better with your tiny pony tail and i like the cuties of the turtles
Answer
Thanks for the fashion tip, Martha. Maybe I will change it up throughout the year. :-)
Name
Jesse Ortega
Comment
my brother was with you last year his name is Agustin Ortega
Answer
Agustin was awesome. I knew you looked familiar, Jesse. Are you as good of a soccer player as your brother? I look forward to getting to know you, Jesse. :-)
Name
:)Jetzamany Anacleto:)
Comment
How old are you Mr.Maynard?? AND What's Up with your haircut??;(
Answer
I am 37 years old. My haircut is what’s up. Just joking. I like it. It took a long time to grow out and I don’t think I would have the patience to grow it out again. Thus, it will probably stay for a while longer. Thanks for the question, Jetzamany. :-)
Name
Edan Gonzaalez
Comment
how old are you
Answer
I am 37 years old and forever young at heart. Thanks for the question, Edan. :-)
Name
Letnia Garcia
Comment
Do you have kids?Are you married?What do you like to do on your free time?Do you like school? Do you like cats and dogs?Do you hate when a student talk when ur talking?
Answer
I have no kids or wife. I like to run, play basketball, walk my dog and hang out with nephew and niece in my free time. I do like school. I didn’t when I was a kid. I love it more as a teacher. I am more of a dog person than a cat, though one of my old roommates had a cat. I am more tolerant of cats than I used to be. It can be annoying when students talk when I am instructing. I don’t mind talking as long as my students are focused. Thanks for the questions, Letnia. :-)
Name
angel aguilar
Comment
i feel like this class and going to learn well
Answer
I hope you learn a lot this year, have much fun and become a reader for life. I look forward to working with you, Angel. Thanks for the question. :-)
