who was manager of the basketball and baseball teams he played on . When he returned to Fresno State to get his teaching credential , he worked as a moderate / severe paraprofessional .
He remembers thinking , “ I like doing this . I could make a career out of this .”
“ It was very easy for me to relate to a lot of these kids ,” Hill said .
Although he didn ’ t want a job in business , that background has helped him with teaching . He approaches his days as “ running your own small business with a team of adults , making sure your kids ’ needs are being met .”
He ’ s noticed that his students who participate in Unified Sports are more motivated in the classroom .
Students can also participate in a similar program in music called United Sound . Hoover students of varying abilities also work together through Patriot Pals , meeting once a week .
For Hill , trading a suit and tie in the business world for a Hoover polo and a chance to work with students who need his dedication and teaching skills was exactly the right decision .
From left , students Ethaniel Adams and Emilio Escamilla with Coach Hill at a Unified Soccer match .
He likes teaching high school , where his students are rotating teachers and have the same opportunities as students in general education . Since he started teaching , he has seen the options expand for students with Individual Education Plans ( IEPs ) in academics and in activities .
Hill coaches soccer as part of the district ’ s Unified Sports program , which pairs students with IEPs with student athletes in soccer , basketball and track .
“ There ’ s been some really great transformative friendships that have come about ,” Hill said .
Hoover High School teacher Mike Hill catches up with student Elijah Johnson .