Linebacker Leads U.S. Gov Class For A Day

A few days ago NFL player Gionni Paul subbed for Highland’s U.S Government class. His freshman and sophomore year he played at the University of Miami and was the two time ACC Linebacker of the week. Then he transferred to the University of Utah and his successful 2015 season lead to a draftable future. Paul was one of the highest ranked players headed into the 2016 NFL Draft. He is now a linebacker for the Cincinnati Bengals.

On his off season he tries to sub and work on his resume. Highland High was Paul’s third subbing job, he has also been to West and some other middle schools around the valley. His favorite part about subbing is getting to interact with the students. And one of the main reasons he subs is to give back to the community.

“I remember guys that play NFL came back and showed us the value of education and giving back to the community,” said Paul, “And I knew that’s what I want to do.”

After Paul retires he would like to become a teacher. He is very passionate about interacting and getting to know the students. During class he was very down to earth and would tease and talk with the students. His degree from the University of Utah was in economics and sociology, so if he decides to becomes a teacher after he retires he would like teach one of those subjects.

Many students at Highland heard about the NFL player in the school building and were very ecstatic about the news. Within hours there were Snapchat stories of the player in the classroom. It was very exciting to have such a famous athlete helping in our school.