Staff Profile: Mr Alves

Mr. Paul Alves has been cultivating the potential of students for many years with his unique, dedicated, and enthusiastic approach to teaching. Offering more than just academic aid to students, he also offers invaluable wisdom and advice.

Initially beginning his career in business and later gaining admission to law school, before ultimately switching directions, Mr. Alves discovered his passion for teaching through tutoring and, more specifically, when he began tutoring math. The changes that he made while searching for a career that aligned with his interests and goals eventually led to the foundation of his love for teaching.

Alves explained, “I really enjoyed working with students,” claiming that, “it was a real high when I helped someone, and they got it.” He then went on to obtain a Bachelor’s degree in Math from York University before attending Mount Allison University in New Brunswick for teacher’s college.

When asked if he’s ever had second thoughts about his career, Mr. Alves answered, “There are always moments like that.” As is natural for anyone, when things get challenging or particularly difficult, there are always times when you question whether you’re doing what’s right for you. Having the determination and resilience to continue through these challenges is what creates true passion and growth, both personal and professional.

Outside of school, Alves remains an active member of the community, both literally and figuratively. Oftentimes, he goes on runs through trails after school, basking in the beauty of our natural surroundings. He also enjoys various sports, such as basketball, which he actively participated in training during the girls basketball season earlier this school year. As an avid reader and frequent concertgoer, Mr. Alves enjoys various forms of art. In fact, he also mentioned being a member of the Art Gallery of Ontario.

“I like to experience things… There's lots to do. And that’s also one of the advantages of being a teacher. You do get the opportunity to do many things.” And many things he does. Being an all-rounder in various topics, not just in academics, provides Alves with valuable insight.

A piece of advice that he shared was to “Find the thing that will get you out of bed every day for a good long period of time. Think about what you want to do, so that in ten years’ time, it’ll still be the thing that gets you up in the morning.” Life, as he shared, is almost never a straight path, and it’s perfectly normal for things to change along the way. The lesson to remember is to continue moving forward with an open mind and the willingness to adapt.

After many successful years of teaching, and many more to come, Mr. Alves is, without a doubt, someone who’s truly passionate about his career. His dedication and love for his work are reflected in the success of those he has taught and continues to teach. The ability to shape the minds of the next generation is a power, and as famously said, with great power comes great responsibility, one of the many defining characteristics of our amazing Head of the Math Department, Mr. Alves.