For Jeremy Davies, teaching isn’t just a job—it’s a calling rooted in family, passion, and a love for learning. As an IB math teacher at Spruce Creek High School, his alma mater, he’s dedicated to making math both accessible and exciting for his students. Beyond the classroom, he also inspires young athletes as a tennis coach, bringing the same enthusiasm and commitment to the court. In this Q&A, Mr. Davies shares how his upbringing shaped his journey, the joys of teaching, and the moments that make it all worthwhile.
1. How did growing up around educators and people who worked in schools impact your life?
Growing up surrounded by educators inspired me to seek the same rewarding path. My grandfather was a professor in South America prior to moving to the United States. He spoke limited English and, after relocating, took a job as a maintenance employee at a private school. My mother pioneered her teaching career—notably as a math teacher—at that same school. I was fortunate enough to attend this school for nine years, getting firsthand experience of a unique perspective of the classroom—from both outside and inside. Ultimately, this inspired me to share my passion for math with those around me.
2. What do you like most about teaching math?
Unlike some subjects that might have multiple interpretations or ways to express ideas, math follows clear, logical steps. The moment a student suddenly grasps a difficult concept, whether it's solving a tricky algebraic equation or understanding the geometric properties of shapes, is a magical part of teaching. These a-ha moments are particularly rewarding because they represent a shift from confusion or frustration to understanding, and that transformation can be incredibly satisfying for both the student and the teacher. There’s nothing like hearing a student say, “You make math so easy,” or, “I actually like math now.”
Helping students see those connections and develop a deeper appreciation for the subject is incredibly fulfilling. The skills they develop in solving mathematical problems—like perseverance, attention to detail, and the ability to approach problems from different angles—are valuable far beyond the classroom.
The universality of math is something I find particularly inspiring. Regardless of where someone is from or what language they speak, mathematical principles remain the same. This commonality allows for a deep sense of collaboration and shared understanding among people from all walks of life, and teaching math means contributing to that global dialogue in a meaningful way.
3. How do you balance being a teacher and tennis coach?
The key to success lies in effective time management, leveraging transferable skills, and ensuring self-care and flexibility. I credit my experience in business management with helping me develop good habits of time management and work ethic. By prioritizing these strategies, I can remain engaged and fully present in both my teaching and coaching responsibilities.
While both roles involve guiding and mentoring others, the skills required for each are distinct. When I am teaching, my focus is on the academic development of my students, and I must prioritize lesson delivery, assessments and classroom management. On the tennis court, my attention shifts to coaching athletes, improving their physical skills and fostering teamwork and discipline.
Even though the approaches and specific targets may be different in the classroom versus the tennis court, some goals overlap. The winning mentality on the tennis court translates to the classroom in achieving high-pass rates. I also emphasize having a culture of excellence in both settings, encouraging students to eagerly come to class and learn, just as I want my tennis players to be excited to compete at the highest level they can.
4. What has been the most rewarding moment of your career so far?
It really all starts with getting the opportunity to come back home to Spruce Creek High School, my alma mater, to teach.
Being nominated for Teacher of the Year for Spruce Creek High School, making the top five, and ultimately being named Volusia County’s Teacher of the Year is something I never dreamed of happening. Another memorable experience was being able to coach the first male high school tennis singles state champion from the Volusia-Flagler area in 2021. Sami Ozzor is an incredible player, so for me to be able to mentor him and be a part of that journey in my first year as the head coach was really special.
Other rewarding moments have been just being a part of the life and culture here at Spruce Creek, whether it’s working at the football games, participating in Homecoming Week, chaperoning Grad Bash or high-fiving students at graduation. What makes these experiences extra special is when my former students come back to Spruce Creek, also known as the Nest, to share their new experiences and endeavors in life.
5. What advice do you have for someone who is thinking of going into teaching?
If you’re considering a career in teaching, you’re embarking on a path that can be both immensely rewarding and challenging. Teaching is a profession that requires dedication, patience and a deep passion for helping others. It’s not just about delivering lessons. It’s about building rapport with students and getting to know them as people. It’s about fostering a love for learning and making a lasting impact on students’ lives.
You can navigate the demands of teaching while making a meaningful impact by staying organized, building strong relationships with students, being flexible in your approach and seeking support from others. Teaching may not always be easy, but the rewards—both in personal growth and in seeing your students succeed—are immeasurable. It’s a career that offers endless opportunities for learning, creativity and connection, and one that can bring a profound sense of fulfillment.
