Making connections with students is a task many teachers try to accomplish. Art teacher and Evans Scholar Daron Wojnowski, fondly known as Mr. W, has been successful in this pursuit.

Known for his Friday storytelling and advice giving, Wojnowski has created an environment where students feel comfortable.

“There are so many conversations that go on in his class that always bring good energy to my day, and there’s never a dull moment,” senior Lexi Bullock said.

Wojnowski has been an art teacher at South for eleven years. He says he likes the passion students and staff share for art.

“The staff and students appreciate art. They take it seriously,” Wojnowski said.

On Fridays, Wojnowski shares stories about his life, giving guidance towards the ends of his stories.

“He’s caring and interactive with his students,” Bullock said. “He connects with you.”

Art teacher Will Harvey describes him as nice, quick to make a joke, and professional.

“He’s very knowledgeable about ceramics and teaching alongside him has been very enjoyable,” said Harvey.

Wojnowski is a recipient of the Evans Scholarship, a scholarship awarded by The Evans Scholar Foundation.

The Evans Scholars Foundation, founded in 1930 by the Western Golf Association and Charles “Chick” Evans, awards caddies who express financial need, do well in school, partake in extracurricular activities, and have a strong caddy record.

After caddying at the Country Club of Detroit in Grosse Pointe, MI, Wojnowski attended Michigan State University as an Evan’s Scholar and was Chapter President as well as Administrative Vice President.

“It gave me a chance to not only get a great education, but it taught me to be a leader,” he said.

Wojnowski’s passion for art continues outside the classroom, taking the form of a hobby. Additionally, he enjoys sports such as hockey and golf. He plays in a Saturday league at Downers Grove Golf Club.

Wojnowski comments that he has seen students persevering through the pandemic and that he’s glad teachers can be there to guide and encourage them.

“When we see the kids doing well, we do well,” he said.