5 Questions with Mr. Patterson

Doug Patterson, eighth grade history teacher

School: St. Mary's School

Years at current school: Six years

What did Mr. Patterson want to be when he grew up?
He said he wasn’t sure what he wanted to be, but had a good influence from his mother who worked as a teacher.

“I couldn’t avoid it. It is in my genes,” Patterson said.

What are some hardships when teaching eighth grade?
“I love teaching eighth grade kids, but they are distracted by social issues,” Patterson said. “Those are a big deal for them. I need to understand what they are going through to connect with them.”

What makes Mr. Patterson’s class unique?
“I have a very high energy class and I encourage students to always voice their opinion about history,” Patterson said.

What was Mr. Patterson’s favorite subject when she was in school?
History.

“I like thinking and analyzing exciting events,” he said.

What are Mr. Patterson’s hobbies?
Patterson said he likes playing soccer and surfing. He began surfing after grade school and said any beach in his home of San Clemente is great for surfing.

Editor's note: Last week's Aliso Viejo Patch Whiz Kid, Abigail Jackson, said Patterson was the person who inspired her to develop her leadership abilities. "Mr. Patterson taught me that I can be a leader and be able to keep my friends," she said. "I can still be fun to be around."

Patterson said Jackson will accomplish "amazing things."

"She just needs to keep focused and keep her motivation. She is full of potential," he said.