Influencer of the week: Marcus Spencer, Ocoee Middle School

Marcus Spencer is a coach at Ocoee Middle School and has been the school’s physical education teacher for 13 years. He is described as a great advocate for the students and is gifted at making connections with the people he meets. 

Teaching isn’t Spencer’s first career; he previously worked as a juvenile probation officer.

He said he didn’t like seeing so many students going through the justice system, so he earned his teaching certificate so he could make a difference in children’s lives earlier.

“I never want to do anything else,” Spencer said. “It’s the best-kept secret being a PE teacher. PE is so rewarding.”

What do you love most about your school?

 I love our faculty and staff; they’re a pleasure to work with and talk to. Also, (I love) the diversity of our student base. I look forward to meeting new students each year.
 

What's your favorite part of your job?

Coming in every day, working alongside the best PE teachers in Orange County. I enjoying having the opportunity to positively impact students’ lives on a daily basis. I also enjoy coaching up the students and watching them grow athletically. It’s rewarding to see the students grow over time and become successful young men and women.

Why does this job appeal to you?

My job allows me to combine my favorite things: working with students, inspiring others, athletics and health.

What motivates you and pushes you to do your best? 

I take pride in my job, and I know my family, principal and coworkers count on me to be at my best every day, as we strive to make a difference in our students’ lives.

What's the nicest thing a student or faculty member has done for you?

Being selected for Teacher of the Year in 2013-2014 by faculty and staff.

The nicest thing students (have) done for me is write letters when they have become seniors in high school saying how I inspired them to do better and when they come back to visit me to see how I am doing.

How do you best make connections with the students?  

I make connections with the students by always being there for them no matter what. Whether it is giving them advice or going to one of their basketball or football games outside of school to show them support.

What’s your favorite restaurant and favorite meal?

My favorite restaurant is Morton’s. My favorite meal is steak, french fries and their chopped salad.
 

What’s your favorite movie and why? 

My favorite movie is probably “Stomp The Yard.” Watching the movie brings back memories of my college experiences at a HBCU (historically black colleges and universities) and reminds of the different people I met and built lifetime bonds with.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be? 

If I could have any superpower, it would be the power to heal people from any sickness, disease.

What’s your favorite vacation spot and why?  

My favorite vacation spot is Amelia Island; I enjoy relaxing on the quiet, private beach.

What do you like to do in your free time? 

I like to spend time with my wife and daughter.

What’s your favorite book and why? 

My favorite book is any one of the Bluford series books that I read with my students. I just love the stories that each book offers.

What are some of your can’t-miss TV shows? 

Some can’t-miss TV shows are “Power,” “Undisputed,” (shows on) ESPN and “Million Dollar Listing.”

If you could put any four musicians on an alternate Mount Rushmore, who would it be? 

Michael Jackson, Tupac, Biggie Smalls and Jay Z.

Tell us about your family: 

My family is the love of my life. My wife and daughter sacrifice time for me to coach both girls basketball, boys track and also be the athletic coordinator at my school. Whether it’s my immediate family or extended family, they are always supportive of me and my love of coaching.