The journey of a teacher often involves more than just the classroom—it shows growth, change, and sometimes, unexpected returns. Exploring the reasons behind his departure, and the insights he brings back to our school community, Scott West has been welcomed back to Greater Latrobe High School.
Scott West grew up in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, where he developed a passion for physical fitness and sports from a young age. During his time at GLHS, he was actively involved in various sports, playing baseball, basketball, and football. His natural athleticism and love for competition made him a standout player, and his commitment to physical training became a key part of his identity.
After graduating from high school in 2005, Scott attended Slippery Rock College, where he continued to grow his passion for fitness and education. Upon completing his studies, he decided to leave Latrobe in search of new opportunities. This led him to Herbert Akins Road Middle School in North Carolina, where he began his teaching career. He spent the next 14 years teaching, where he became a respected educator and coach. During his time at the school, he taught physical education and mentored students in various ways, emphasizing the importance of health, teamwork, and perseverance.
Eventually, after more than a decade of teaching, Scott felt the call to return to his roots in Latrobe. After years of living and working away from his hometown, he and his wife made the heartfelt decision to return to Latrobe. They wanted to be closer to family as they prepared to welcome their third child. He came back to the area, bringing with him years of experience and a desire to continue making a positive impact on his community. His return marked a new chapter in his career, and he looks forward to inspiring the next generation of students in the town that shaped him.
From his early days as a student-athlete at Greater Latrobe High School to his 14 years of teaching at Herbert Akins Road Middle School, Scott’s journey is a strong commitment to both personal growth and community involvement. Scott shared his words of perception.
Q: Why is physical education important to you?
A: I might be a bit biased, but I truly believe Physical Education is one of the most important classes a student can take. The benefits of regular physical activity, proper nutrition, and good sleep habits have such a profound impact on both your physical and mental well-being. Unfortunately, many students aren’t getting enough of these vital elements outside of school. What’s taught in P.E. can have lifelong benefits—helping you live longer, feel better, and maintain the energy to enjoy the things you love.
Q: What has been the biggest change in Greater Latrobe High School you’ve seen since coming back?
A: The biggest change is definitely the facilities. The upgrades to the field house and Rossi Field are impressive. When I was here, we had a gravel track and a practice field behind the high school, so it’s incredible to see how much things have improved. Another major change is the addition of athletic performance and weight training classes. I’ve often told athletes how much my classmates and I would have appreciated having personalized training built into our daily schedule. The time it saves athletes by allowing them to complete tailored workouts during the school day is a game-changer!
Q: Do you think Latrobe has a more advanced physical education program than your last school?
A: The facilities, access to the weight room, and the TeamBuildr app that students can use both during the day and after school are all more advanced than what you’ll find in most physical education programs. Combined with the expertise of the P.E. staff, these resources truly set Latrobe apart.
Q: Do you see any differences between your students here and those at your previous school? If so, could you elaborate on how they differ?
A: Having taught middle school, I’ve noticed a few key differences. Middle schoolers are in that “tweener” phase, still figuring out who they are, so transitioning to teaching grades 9-12 at Latrobe, with students who are more mature and moving toward adulthood, has been a refreshing change. The students at Latrobe have been amazing—welcoming me right from the start. Coming in after the school year has already begun can be a tough position, but the transition has been smooth, thanks to their support.
Scott West’s journey has been shaped by a deep commitment to his community and a passion for helping others succeed. His decision to return home with his growing family highlights his strong ties to the community that helped shape him. His story is a reminder of the importance of staying true to one’s roots and values, and his continued dedication to inspiring the next generation will no doubt leave a lasting legacy in Latrobe for years to come.
