NILES, Ill. (WGN) — The stairwell to the art studio at Notre Dame College Prep in Niles says, “Paint like a Champion.”
Inside sits Mike Jankowski’s classroom, where pops of color, intricate designs and bursts of creativity are put on display by students who, “Paint like a Champion.”
This creativity is all driven by Mr. Jankowksi, the art teacher at Notre Dame College Prep, but his career helping students discover their artistic talents wasn’t always a foregone conclusion.
In fact, he was on a much different path when he discovered a love for art.
“I actually went to college to study to be a doctor,” he said. “I was encouraged to take an art class and when I did, I fell in love with it. It was the first time [I was] challenged to be creative and challenged to think outside the box.”
It was that experience that inspired 37 years of teaching — 32 and counting at Notre Dame College Prep.
“I was fortunate to have amazing teachers in college, in high school … I want to give this experience to other people … I can’t see my life without education,” he said.
Senior and AP Art student Chris Czubek nominated Mr. Jankwoski for Teacher of the Month. He said the push to think outside the box from Mr. Jankowski has sparked his creativity.
“He’s told me how I can change up my projects. Make them unique instead of sticking what I usually do,” Czubek said. “I can expand upon what I do and I can make it my own so it stands out.”
But it’s not only three decades of teaching art, “Mr. J” also coached football for 30 years and has been the track and field head coach for 25.
“You start to relate with them on a different level,” he said. “You can appreciate the different challenges they are going through, the other things they do outside of class. Their whole life is not in my 1.5 hours of class. It allows me to challenge them in different ways and to use their other experiences to [help with] what they are creating in class.”
An intersection of athletics and arts that Mr. J found a way to connect with his students and watch them grow into young men.
Award sponsor Attorney Howard Ankin presented Mr. Jankowski with a $1,000 check.
Mr. J said it’s this community at Notre Dame College Prep that has inspired him — over 800 boys who are on the cusp of adulthood, learning to challenge themselves in new ways, problem solve and be creative — all in a supportive environment where they can express themselves.
As for the money, Jankowksi’s priorities remain consistent.
“I know it will be put to great use because the kids deserve it. The kids deserve the best materials,” he said. “The best things I can get for them. I’m sure I will use it to get them the best quality things that I can get them.”
