I worked for 35 plus years with the Monrovia School District. Before that, I was with the City of Monrovia in the Community Services Department – Parks and Recreation. My teaching career began with a Special Education and PE assignment. I did this combo for about ten years, then became a full-time Phys Ed teacher. I have been able to combine PE and coaching for many years. The majority of my time has been at Santa Fe Middle School – now SF Computer Science Magnet School. I consider myself the luckiest man on the face of the earth having worked with tremendous staffs, students, and parents over these many years. in no small part thanks to the loving support of my wife, Jan.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your origin story. Share a little about your childhood and your family.
I am a So Cal product. Born in San Bernardino. Raised in Colton – hub of industry; center of progress. I attended Colton schools and graduated Class of 1970. I then attended San Bernardino Valley College, then matriculated to Cal Poly, Pomona and played college football there. I was teammates with Jim Zorn, later a QB in the NFL. I met my wife going on 47 years ago. Her maiden name was Sweet. Mine Hart put the two together. Proud father of two awesome girls, Robin and Kelly. Papa to granddaughter, Camber.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
My past careers include a 12-year stint with the City of Monrovia in the Department of Community Services (previously Parks and Recreation). The most recent 35 plus years with MUSD. I have thoroughly enjoyed providing an educational experience to the myriad of students that have graced the halls, interacting with students as they navigate the sixth through eighth grades while everything is in turmoil.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Jake’s Roadhouse, J&B Burgers, Troy’s, Noodle Street
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community? Tell us about your favorite memory or experience living in Monrovia.
Started in 1976, so now 47 years. Teaching is my favorite experience.
Q: None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person you’ve met here in our community who helped you get to where you are or inspired you?
Byron Greer – he was a mentor to an entire generation of teachers, coaches, and human beings.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
Daytona, Florida – home of the Daytona 500 NASCAR
Q: What is one of your favorite movies of all time? Do you have a favorite TV show or shows?
A Few Good Men. Good Morning Football. Ted Lasso. Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives
Q: What advice would you give to people? Do you have a Life Lesson quote?
Age old – Treat others as you wish to be treated – Think before you speak – always strive for the best outcome for all – Quote: “Aspire, to inspire, before you expire”
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
Travel Route 66 – stopping at Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives along the way.
Q: What is your go to band when you can’t decide what music to listen to?
Individual – Van Morrison. Band – Creedence Clearwater Revival
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
J&B Burgers
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative, with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
Rob Hammond – a local gentleman that has mirrored my career – City on Monrovia then MUSD. I hold him in high regard because he has to make decisions that affect the direction of a community. We’d go to Jake’s Roadhouse.
Q: What is your favorite thing about Monrovia or something unique about our community that you like?
The small town atmosphere in an urban sprawl.
Q: Sometimes our mistakes can be our greatest teachers. Can you share a story about the funniest mistake you’ve ever made?
Not a mistake per se, but having a rough day with the students and getting frustrated when one of the same students that was adding to the frustration, let’s call him David, says “Mr. Hart, calm down because you do a make a difference and I appreciate what you are doing.” It stopped my mindset and brought a smile to my face and a calm to my demeanor…just when you think why – the answer comes from a child
Q: Even for friends or family, what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I actually enjoy the Hallmark Channel
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
Yellowstone National Park
Q: What do you consider your greatest achievement?
My daughters, Robin and Kelly
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
Chargers football, Angels baseball, Santa Fe CSMS staff, students, and families
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My wife, my family, my Thursday poker group, Rob Cady – my SF co-worker
Q: If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the greatest amount of people, what would that be?
The left and right listen to each other and find common ground
Q: Finally, what three character traits come to mind when you think of your success in life?
Compassion, humor, flexibility
