At West Side it is not uncommon for teachers to have their own children in class.  Students often take classes with their parents, and so do all of their friends.

“It is really nice and I really enjoy it. It opens up lots of opportunities for me like debate,”  said Daniel Smith’16.  Smith not only has his father as a teacher but also as a debate coach.

According to Daniel Smith’16 it is easy to keep his school work and family life separate.  “Dad sometimes will help me, but we try to separate that because I can do my own work,” said Smith.

Sam Porterfield’15 said that he appreciates having his mom as a math teacher for when he needs extra help with a concept at home.

Porterfield also said that it was helpful to have someone from home at school with him every day.  “I can ask her to borrow money or use her printer in between classes,” Porterfield said.

Both Smith and Porterfield agreed that it could be embarrassing when their parents told stories about their lives to classes, but said that they still would not want it differently.

“It seems like I’m always with him, but that is not a bad thing. We have a great relationship and their are few complaints I have with him,” said Smith.

“I was really excited when I found out Sam was going to be in my class because it means I get to see him everyday,” said Mrs. Porterfield