As Aliso Niguel High School prepares to bid farewell to some of its most dedicated educators, the school community reflects on the immense contributions these teachers have made over the years. Their rich histories not only improve the educational landscape of the school but also leave a lasting impact on generations of students.
One of the most notable figures among the retiring staff is Mr. Michael Chapman, who has dedicated an impressive 32 years of service to Aliso Niguel. He began teaching World History, US History, Government and coaching the ANHS Basketball team when the school opened its doors in September 1993.
He noted, “What stands out for me the most in both the classroom and the athletic field is the relationships you build with the students.”
Before joining Aliso, Mr. Chapman enriched the learning environment at Dana Hills High School for six years. His passion for history and his commitment to student success have made him a beloved figure in the community, inspiring countless students to delve deeper into the past.
To end his years of teaching, Mr. Chapman’s advice for new teachers starting their careers at Aliso is “You have got to buy into the fact that you have to be all in and give the students everything you have the potential for.”
Similarly, Mr. Vido Butler has made significant contributions to the school during his 27-year tenure. Aside from teaching English II and IV, he has also played a pivotal role in athletics, being the Aliso Niguel Track and Field and Cross Country head coach and initiating the AP Art History course back in the day.
To reflect on his experiences, Mr. Butler expressed, “I taught a lot of honors courses and started the AP Art History Course here at Aliso, and knowing I have accomplished all of these back in my prime days, makes me miss coaching and teaching those kinds of challenging classes.”
His ability to inspire students both in the classroom and on the track reflects his dedication to holistic education. With 30 years of teaching experience, Mr. Butler’s creative approach to learning and understanding literature will be dearly missed.
A piece of advice that Mr. Butler gives for new teachers starting their teaching career is to “have the power to balance your work and personal life and always make decisions that have your best interest at heart, both emotionally and physically and most importantly financially.”
Dr. Dawn Lewis, another pillar of the Aliso Niguel faculty, has touched many lives through her work in AVID, ELD and high school English courses. Over her years at Aliso, she has also taught Bible and Literature for a significant portion of her career.
Looking back on her time in Aliso Niguel the accomplishment that stands out as especially meaningful to Dr. Lewis is “a class that I got teach for 12 years called the Bible and Literature because it was so much fun to read all the various stories in the Bible and it made me feel so proud that the students were able to apply those stories and lessons in the Bible to their lives to help them grow and learn as human beings. I think for me this was the greatest accomplishment I have made in my 35 years of teaching.”
Her commitment to fostering student friendships and academic growth has positioned her as a mentor and friend to many. The impact she has had on her students’ lives extends well beyond the classroom.
In mathematics, Mrs. Serena Lane’s expertise is unmatched. With 22 years of teaching experience, 17 at Aliso Niguel, she has guided students through the complexities of classes from Algebra I to Pre-Calculus.
She expressed that the moments that stand out as especially meaningful to her are “the letters of appreciation I have received over the years. The one thing that I’m taking with me is a notebook of all those letters and pictures I have received from those kids.”
Her patience and innovative teaching techniques have been vital in simplifying math for many students, helping them discover their potential in the subject.
To end her final teaching year, she stated, “This school has always had extremely respectful, sweet kids. I have always admired just the quality of students that come through Aliso Niguel, and that has always stayed consistent. I consider myself very fortunate to have had the chance to work with lovely students at Aliso in my entire teaching career.”
The science department has also been greatly influenced by Mrs. Susan Roche, who has taught Honors Chemistry and AP Chemistry at Aliso Niguel for 27 years. Her expertise in chemistry and her enthusiastic teaching approach have made complex scientific concepts accessible and engaging for students, inspiring many to consider careers in the sciences.
She expressed, “I push and work my students hard in AP Chemistry as well as Honors Chemistry, and my students know me for that, but it’s all because I want them to know that they can be successful.”
The greatest piece of advice Mrs. Roche gives new teachers starting their teaching career is “Become involved with the students. Make the students your priority and spend time with them both inside and outside the classroom.”
Following up in the science department, Mr. Philip Stirtz stands out with his extensive 32 years of teaching Anatomy & Physiology, Marine Ecology and Biology at Aliso. His earlier experience in chemistry adds to his diverse teaching portfolio. Just like Mr. Chapman, Mr. Stirtz has also been at Aliso teaching since the first day the school opened.
To finish off his teaching career, he expressed, “Teaching is not just about imparting knowledge; it’s about igniting passion and inspiring future generations to explore the wonders of science, just as every interaction in the ecosystem plays a vital role in the balance of nature.”
Mr. Stirtz is particularly known for leading the Monterey Trip with his Marine Ecology class, an experience that many students look back on fondly. Following his retirement, Mrs. Cynthia Wright will continue this beloved tradition.
Rounding out the group is Mr. Bob Jansen, who has dedicated 30.5 years to teaching AP Physics. His expertise in the subject and his enthusiasm for scientific inquiry have inspired many students to pursue careers in STEM fields. Additionally, when he began his teaching career at Aliso Niguel, he successfully grew the student involvement in Advanced Placement Physics from one section to six sections.
To finalize his teaching career, Mr. Jansen advises new teachers, “Don’t be shy about asking your peers for help. Always be fair and honest so students know that you have their best interests in mind.”
Lastly, Dawn Stanley, after 15 impactful years as the Office Manager at Aliso Niguel High School, is likewise set to retire, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and support.
Additionally, she also served for 9 years on the board for Parents for Aliso Niguel and helped coordinate the Taste of Aliso Niguel each year. In her vital role, she skillfully managed everything from administrative tasks to student and faculty support with grace and efficiency.
To close up this chapter, she expressed, “Looking back at my time at Aliso Niguel, one of the most meaningful accomplishments was helping create a welcoming, supportive environment for both staff and students. Whether it was organizing school events, supporting new hires as they got settled, or just being a reliable, steady presence in the front office.”
Her hard work has created a warm and welcoming atmosphere that fosters strong relationships within the school community. As she undertakes this new chapter and closes another, all at Aliso Niguel will fondly remember and miss her contributions.
As these educators and staff retire, their legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of students and teachers at Aliso Niguel High School. The school community will not only remember them for their academic contributions but also for the passion and care they brought to their roles.
Their departures mark the end of an era, but their impact will be retained in the halls of Aliso Niguel for years to come.
