Health, PE, and sports medicine classes teach students more than just exercise. At Urbana High School, Susan Guglielmini, also known by students as “Ms. G,” helps students learn about health, fitness, and making good choices in their everyday lives.
Guglielmini teaches health, physical education, and sports medicine and is certified K–12. She said her interest in teaching started when she earned her degree in exercise science. “I got my degree in exercise science, and it motivated me to help younger generations learn about health and exercise at an early age,” Guglielmini said. Since becoming a teacher, she has worked to encourage students to build healthy habits they can continue using in the future.
One of Guglielmini’s favorite parts of teaching is building relationships with students and seeing them become interested in class topics. “The connections I make with students, especially when a topic interests them and they get a lightbulb moment,” she said, describing what she enjoys most about teaching. She said it is rewarding to watch students become excited about learning and understanding new ideas.
Guglielmini hopes students take what they learn in her classes and use it outside of school. “Hopefully to make healthier choices and hoping they move more,” she said. She wants students to understand the importance of staying active and taking care of both their physical and mental health.
Like many teachers today, Guglielmini believes technology can be both helpful and distracting for students. She understands that artificial intelligence can help students learn when it is used correctly, but she also thinks students rely on phones and AI too much at times. “Putting down the phones and use of AI,” she explained, can stop students from thinking for themselves and solving problems on their own. She believes students learn best when they participate and stay involved during class.
Senior Jennifer Fazilova said Guglielmini creates a positive classroom environment and works hard to help students feel comfortable. “She’s really understanding and easy to talk to,” Fazilova said. “She makes class more enjoyable and always wants students to do their best.” Fazilova also said Ms. G connects well with students and encourages them to stay involved during class activities.
Junior Jessica Fazilova also spoke positively about Guglielmini and her teaching style. “She’s very supportive and always tries to help students when they need it,” Fazilova said. She explained that Ms. G encourages students to stay active and teaches lessons that students can use in their everyday lives.
For students interested in sports medicine, physical education, or health careers, Guglielmini believes passion is important. “Be passionate and have a desire to help others, but also practice what you preach,” she advised. She said people working in health and fitness should set a good example for others.
Guglielmini also believes balance is one of the most important lessons students can learn. “It’s all balance, and everything in life is a balance,” she said. She encourages students to set goals for themselves while still keeping healthy routines and habits in their daily lives.
Through her teaching, Guglielmini continues to encourage students at Urbana High School to live healthier, stay active, and make positive choices for their future.
