Teacher Spotlight: Michael Jan

By Staff Writers Fiona Yang & Aaqib Zishan

Michael Jan, a 2001 MSJ alumnus, brings professional experience and personal passion into his love for coaching, teaching, and now, leading, as activities coordinator. As the second Leadership 2 (L2) Activities Director in history after Ben Breazeale, Jan is ready to create a new dynasty of memories, school spirit, and student development. 

As a result of his consistent and dedicated involvement with the student body, he was approached by all four school administrators to see if he was interested in the job. Through his new role, Jan hopes to increase school spirit and provide students with an outlet for fun and excitement as a way to take a break from the stress of academics and extracurriculars. Some items on his exciting itinerary for next year include bringing back the tradition of Winter Ball, which is set to be held in February, and adding a Spring Night Market. While trying to improve the structure and organization of L2, Jan also wants to increase L2’s presence by promoting the activities, roles, and importance they bring to the campus. In addition, Jan notes that since he was in high school, MSJ’s academics have always overshadowed other achievements in arts and sports programs. With this in mind, he plans to recognize these overlooked accomplishments, utilizing the Leadership 2 class’s sports, activities, and publicity committees.

Jan received his bachelor’s in computer science at the University of California, Riverside in 2006. A little over a decade into his job as a software engineer, Jan made a switch to the field of education. He connected with students at an emotional level, weaving his love for computer science with the enjoyment of teaching. “I think especially with teaching computer science, [seeing] kids who were scared of it at first start to enjoy the topic [after taking my class], brings me a lot of joy,” Jan said. 

Jan first began his teaching journey at Washington High School as a computer science teacher. After expressing interest in coaching their tennis team, Jan led an athlete to win MVALs, which was the school’s first title in decades, marking one of the most pivotal moments in his career. His success at Washington led to his offer to coach for Boys Tennis at MSJ, which brought him to the school as a computer science and math teacher. Now, Jan attributes some of his favorite memories to winning the North Coast Section (NCS) with both the Boys and Girls Tennis teams. 

From teaching students to coaching athletes, Jan has always been driven by one idea: creating an environment that helps students grow. Despite all the successes he has accumulated as a teacher and in creating a positive environment on campus, Jan highlights the physical distress he’s seen at school. “Seeing students struggle life-wise makes me incredibly sad, and I keep that in mind … [though] it’s inevitable,” Jan said. As a past MSJ student, Jan connects with many students on campus and vows to create a place that promotes mental wellness. With the help of L2, he plans to create activities improving mental health and work with the wellness center to help students take breaks and limit burnout. His empathy and compassion for his students make him an incredibly caring and understanding teacher. 

As one of MSJ’s youngest and inspiring faculty, Jan has experienced large success in his career as a teacher and coach. He attributes these accomplishments to discovering what makes him fulfilled and pursuing that with passion wholeheartedly.  Jan encourages everyone to take risks and tackle challenges. “Find what [you’re] passionate [about], that will make life go faster and be more enjoyable,” Jan said.