He is a Marist math teacher who does more than just teach. Mr. Berta connects with students every day and creates a positive learning environment.
“He connects with me on a personal level by actually talking to me, asking how my weekend was, checking up on me whenever I need it, being funny, making jokes to the class, and just making our math class so fun and positive,” said sophomore Ava McGlynn.
Berta was previously a lawyer before coming to Marist. When he chose to come to Marist, he knew right away that he was going to love working here.
“I chose to teach at Marist because during the interview process, I got a good feel for this school and that it would be a good fit,” said Berta.
His main goal is to be there for students. Whether it is a lesson they don’t understand, or talking about something the student is worried about, he is on it.
“He has helped me as a teacher in so many ways. He always offers to do Kahoots and is always helping our classmates when we are struggling,” McGlynn said.
Berta also has other reasons for why he chose and loves working at Marist.
“I also like the challenging curriculum and sports that Marist offers, which got me excited to join this community,” he said.
Berta likes to make lighthearted conversations before class to get everyone in a good mood. One day he was asking everyone what their name would be if they were a dwarf. As for his?
“I would be Scrappy because I work really hard in everything I do,” Berta said.
Students can see right through Berta and can tell what kind of person he is from when he talks about his life in class.
“I think his life is very busy and filled with fun due to what he tells us, like his weekends and looking outside of school, he seems like a very caring and fun person,” McGlynn said.
Berta likes to stay involved in the Marist community in other ways besides teaching. He also coaches the Marist golf team.
“I like coaching golf at Marist because it allows me to go outside after school, enjoy the outdoors, and gives me a chance to help student athletes with their game,” Berta said.
He is known to play his guitar around the school sometimes, creating a fun environment everywhere he goes.
“In my free time, I like spending time outdoors. This includes running, golfing in the summer, and camping trips with my wife,” Berta said.
Berta incorporates his cat, Panda, into every lesson. He will put her name in problems or put a picture of her up on the weekly agenda.
“One of my favorite things is my cat, Panda, because she has the loyalty of a dog and she cuddles like a baby,” said Berta.
