Michael Lytle never thought he would become a middle school teacher. 

“My mother was an educator,” he stated. I remember watching her have to grade papers, and I would jokingly say ‘I don’t know how you do it, I could never teach someone's kids.”

“Never” was not the appropriate word to use. After a disappointing experience in Information Technology, Mr. Lytle took time to reflect and determine where he would serve the best purpose. 

Mr. Lytle accepted a parapro position with North Metro RESA in Gwinnett County. It was difficult but rewarding work. After a stint at Dacula Middle School, Mr. Lytle heard about Swift School from Carol Madden, Swift’s former Middle Division Director. 

Before the 2014-15 school year, Mr. Lytle, who prior to teaching had various experiences in sales and engineering, arrived at Swift School. He currently teaches sixth through eighth grade with a focus on science and world cultures. 

With Swift’s small class sizes, each student receives individual attention. Mr. Lytle ensures that his teaching methods provide multiple ways for students to learn. 

“I want to empower the students to speak up and let me know what works for them,” he said. “Sometimes, I may do something that does not work for them, so I need them to self-advocate and explain what is and what is not working. At that point, I can cater my teaching methods to their style. It’s the greatest feeling in the world when the light bulb comes on and students not only understand a concept but retain it.”

Outside of the classroom, Mr. Lytle is heavily involved with the Swift Spartans athletics program. He serves as the head coach for the soccer, basketball, and touch football teams. 

“I have always had a competitive spirit,” he noted. “To see the athletes experience what it is like to go through a season, learn the lessons of teamwork and working with peers, deal with losses, and have ah-ha moments when it all comes together is a great thing.”

Mr. Lytle summed up his job as a Swift School educator with one word – rewarding. 

“The eighth grade graduation ceremonies are always a favorite memory of mine.  To see the students graduate and go to high school is my greatest moment as a Swift teacher. The pride on their parents’ faces and on the kids faces is incredible because they know they are ready to tackle whatever lies in front of them.”

Have a rising fifth through eighth grade student who was diagnosed with dyslexia and needs remediation? Allow them to have a mentor like Mr. Lytle while discovering their confidence and academic ability. Email admissionassociate@theswiftschool.org to learn more about Swift School's admissions process.