Teacher Bio:

Where to start: I retired from in-person teaching in 2024, after 36 years at Eau Claire Memorial (1), Superior Senior High (1), and Wisconsin Rapids Lincoln High School (34). During that time, I coached baseball for all 36 years (31 as a head coach); like with WVS, I taught Psychology, AP Psychology, History, and a course I created and introduced in my last four years titled History through Media. While teaching, I also ran the school fundraiser; was "pope" of the Floss Club (long story, but we were self-declared "State Champions" for 18 straight years :); started the Future Teachers Club at LHS; also created the first all-night, substance-free party for seniors, dubbed Class Reunion Zero; and named my classroom the Shady Platypus (in which we sold shirts with, you guessed it, a shady platypus on it, and donated over $1,800 throughout the years to charities).  

OK, I get it, move on - all that was probably more than you cared to know. Sara, my wife of 30 years, is also a teacher (5th grade) at Mead Elementary School in Wisconsin Rapids. My daughter Megan graduated with a Neuroscience degree from UW-Eau Claire (the Harvard of the Midwest - yes, I graduated from there as well) and is currently teaching special education in Wisconsin Rapids while working towards her Masters in Autism Studies.  

What are my hobbies, you ask? Well, even if you didn't: I like to read classic literature, exercise (lift and bike), and travel. As a family, we prioritize travel over things and have travelled extensively throughout the U.S., the Caribbean, and Europe.

Though I'm retired from teaching in Wisconsin Rapids, I'm looking forward to continuing to teach through Wisconsin Virtual School. I have absolutely enjoyed my career, and WVS has allowed me to continue to enjoy this great profession. I have always enjoyed providing information and resources for students to enhance their learning. And though some of you students may gag at this suggestion, I believe EVERY student enjoys learning once they realize the application to "real life."  

I'm looking forward to another great year at WVS and wish every student the best of luck in their learning adventures.

Mr. Gawlitta

Subjects and Grade Levels taught:

Social Studies (9-12)
AP Psychology
Psychology
History
History through Media

Wisconsin Teacher Licensure:

Social Studies
History
Psychology