02/28/2024
Was having a great day in my classroom and sitting in Coach Class with a few kids after school when I learned the news about Daniel J Vomastek, one of my favorite high school teachers. The waves of sadness hit me swiftly and I had to excuse myself to have some private tears down the hall. Recently diagnosed short and aggressive cancer. I had Mr. Vomastek for at least two years, including his first year of teaching, and was at that age in an upper-level math class where we recognized teachers as human beings. He told funny stories about his experiences in college, and as a fellow nerdy guy myself, I definitely related to him. I remember him writing a big open-hearted editorial for the school newspaper, which I was editor-in-chief of, and later he became our advisor when we needed one in a pinch. He was dedicated, lifelong inspiration.
I've loved staying in touch with him over the years, seeing him continue in education and technology. He kept that big open heart and love for people. Mr. Vomastek's Twitter Bio is simply, "What we do for children echoes in eternity," and as I round out my 23rd year in the classroom with inspiration from him, those words ring super true about him. He's echoing in me and countless others. Rest in Peace, Mr. Vomastek. This one hurts! Condolence to friends and family.
