18 Nov #TeamTuesday: Meet our High School Coordinator, Jonathan Embden!

Q: We are so excited to welcome you to our coaching staff! Tell us a little bit about your background and what inspired you to become an educator.

A: I grew up in south Florida and am a proud graduate of the Titans of Nova High School in Davie, FL. I went on to study psychology at Florida International University and received my bachelors degree. I have always loved children and they seem to reciprocate that love towards me. My inspiration to become an educator probably came from my grandmother who taught grade school in Jamaica and my mom, who is a veteran of the Dade county school system.

Q: What do you like best about working at SOM?

A: Well, there is a lot to like about Space of Mind. I love that I can work with the kids from different age groups throughout the day. Also, lunches from our five star chef, Neil, is a great perk of working at SOM! One thing I have noticed is that the staff here is extremely friendly and helpful, which makes transitioning as a coach easy.

Q: Other than your passion for working with students, what are some of your hobbies and favorite things to do outside of school?

A: I enjoy music and learning new things, but a passion of mine is sports. I love to watch, play and listen to basketball and football games. I spend time at the gym playing pick-up basketball or in men’s leagues, while also mentoring and training high school students to get to the next level in their basketball careers. If I’m not doing those things, I’m spending time with my girlfriend and our three-year-old son, going to the park, reading to him, letting him climb all over me or just laying there and watching his TV shows like Thomas and Friends or Curious George!

Q: One more question… if you were an animal, what kind of animal would you be and why?

A: If I were an animal, I would be a lion because it represents the most powerful creature, as the “king of the jungle.” They are both affectionate and territorial, in and for their pride.