Jack Assaf grew up in Atlanta and spent six years in Denver before moving to Aspen to join Aspen Country Day as a Middle School math teacher. He holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and an M.Ed. from the University of Notre Dame. Now entering his 10th year in education, Jack began his career teaching high school math and physics before making the move to Middle School. A longtime Scout, he credits those experiences with sparking his love of the outdoors.
Which ACDS core value is most meaningful to you, and why?
Responsibility is the most important to me. You will always be responsible to others in your life. Whether it’s a family member, a spouse, a co-worker, or just a stranger, responsibility is always part of the human experience.
What led you to a career in education?
I loved learning engineering but did not quite enjoying “doing” engineering. I figured I could better serve the world by teaching students to love (and possibly pursue) STEM fields than be an engineer myself.
What’s an itch you’d like to scratch? An interest or passion you’d like to pursue?
I am working improving my chess game!. I learned when I was young and rediscovered a passion for it in the last few years. I have also found it’s a great way to connect with students!
Hidden talent or special skill?
I love ceramics and am pretty solid when it comes to “throwing” on a potter’s wheel.