I had the opportunity to interview Mr. Bolin, who is a Pre-calculus teacher here at Gaffney High. Mr. Bolin follows a direct approach in his instructional methods when teaching.  Mr. Bolin offers his pre-calculus students an engaging learning environment and has a authentic sense of humor that breaks the ice, so students feel more comfortable in his classroom. I would describe Mr. Bolin as an experienced teacher, with a sense of humor. He is rarely ever absent and does his best to help anyone who might not understand the lesson. Mr. Bolin usually keeps to himself, so I was surprised when he agreed to answer questions like these.

Q: How long have you been teaching at Gaffney High School?

A: I have been at GHS for 22 years.

Q: Why did you want to teach math?

A: I liked the challenge of math, and I wanted to try and help young people be successful.

Q: What did you do before you came to Gaffney High?

A: I worked some with my father-in-law in the heating and air conditioning business while I was in school, and then was immediately hired after I graduated.

Q: What did you originally want to be when you were growing up?

A: I had originally wanted to be a civil engineer.

Q: Did you have a job while you were in high school? If so, where did you work and what did you do?

A: I was a lifeguard during the summers, but I didn’t work during the school year.

Q: Did you play any sports/participate in any extracurricular activities during high school or college?

A: I played golf in high school.

Q: Where did you graduate from?

A: I graduated from Clemson and Converse College.

Q: Where are you from?

A: I’m from Gaffney.

Q: What is your favorite movie/TV show?

A: Tombstone and A Few Good Men are two of my favorite movies.

Q: What is your favorite song/genre of music?

A: I listen to mostly contemporary Christian music.

Q: What are your hobbies?

A: I enjoy spending time with my family and anything outdoors when the weather is nice.

Q: What is your favorite food?

A: Steak and baked potato would be a favorite meal of mine.

Q: What is your favorite color?

A: Purple is my favorite color.

Q: What is your favorite past vacation?

A: The best vacation was to St. Augustine, Florida.

Q: What is your dream vacation?

A: I would like to vacation in Hawaii.

Q: How do you run your classroom?

A: Math requires practice, so I do a great deal of guided practice with opportunities for students to make sure they are confident in what they are doing.