I worked with Gerry Neri for a period of time when he was a teacher and I was the principal at Apollo High School. He is one of the wisest men I know. As a businessman, Gerry knew the ins and outs of leadership and working to keep momentum. He was a great teacher. He taught Economics and Social Studies and the kids loved him. He was tough, had high expectations, and kept them learning. His classroom was controlled. The students loved being in his class. He was kind.
Gerry was supportive of me as a new principal. He respected me and I knew he had my back. He fed me the support I needed to know that I was doing a good job. He had struggles and I saw him persevere through them and to work with kids who were the most needy and make a difference for them. He was a strong male role model and I need that cause I lacked that in my development. I could look up to Gerry and when I needed to get grounded, go visit him. He did not mince words and I respect him for that.
Gerry Neri gave to the kids at Apollo the freedom to be and the accountability to be best. Definitely one of my Top 365 as I aspire to have this wisdom.
