by Luis Hernandez, Managing Editor

Mr. Deonte Towner, one of St. John Bosco High School’s newest English teachers, wants students to know his class will be challenging, but it will make them a more well-rounded and faith-filled man.

Q: Where did you grow up?

A:I grew up in Salinas, California.

Q: What high school did you attend?

A: I attended North Salinas High School.

Q: What college did you attend?

A: I went to Hartnell and Monterey Peninsula Community College for three years. And then I transferred to Long Beach State University for my Bachelor’s degree in English, and then after, I attended Dominguez Hills for my Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction. Then, I went back to Long Beach State to get my teaching credential. After, I went to UC San Diego to clear my credential. 

Q: Did you have any teaching experience before working at Bosco?

A: Yes, I taught at Paramount High School, Alan LeRoy Locke High School and King-Drew Medicine and Science Magnet High School.

Q: What is your role at Bosco?

A: 9th and 11th grade English Teacher. 

Q: What is your favorite part of teaching?

A: Being able to see students grow academically and spiritually in their four years. 

Q: How long have you been a teacher?

A: I have been a teacher for eight years.

Q: What was your favorite subject growing up?

A: My favorite subject was Japanese in high school.

Q: Who is your favorite author?

A: Sandra Cisneros.

Q: What would you tell students who want to become a teacher?

A: I would tell students that teaching is a ministry. You have to really love people with all your heart. You are an example everywhere you go. It is a huge responsibility but very rewarding. You are going to have fun days and very challenging days, but through it all, God is in control.

Q: What do you want students to know about your class?

A: I want students to know that I will meet them where they are but push them to grow. I want students to know that they will be challenged, but it is out of love. I want students to be open to getting to know other students in the class they may not usually talk to and build a brotherhood. Students will walk out of my class at the end of the year better men who are closer to Jesus Christ. 

Q: What is your favorite book?

A: My favorite book is The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros.

Q: What is your favorite part of Bosco?

A: The religious aspect, being able to pray and talk about God in my lessons. 

Q: Do you have any hobbies?

A: Hiking, playing basketball and going to amusement parks.

Q: What is your favorite season?

A: Summer.

Q: What are your favorite food spots?

A: In N Out and revolving sushi places.

Q: Burgers or Tacos?

A: Tacos anytime! My wife makes the best Mexican food. 

Q: Do you have a favorite sports team?

A: The Raiders, Warriors and Dodgers.

Q: Do you have any pets?

A: No, but I had a goldfish growing up.

Q: If you could have any car what would it be?

A: Tesla.

Q: Dream Vacation?

A: Bahamas.