From bartending to marketing to teaching, FCHS science teacher Wiley House has taken a far from linear path to Fluvanna. Growing up in Southwestern Texas and eventually moving to Arlington, VA, House began his journey at Wakefield High School. He then went on to Texas Tech University, and, in the end, completed his degree at George Mason University.

Though teaching was not originally on his agenda, he eventually landed his first professional role as the Membership and Marketing Director at a YMCA branch in Washington, D.C., where he connected with the YMCA’s mission, especially its impact on children. He said this sparked a passion for serving others.

After working with YMCA, House realized that he wasn’t exactly where he knew he was meant to be. “I wanted a career that offered purpose, stability, and the chance to make a lasting difference while raising a family. Friends often told me I’d make a great teacher, and their encouragement led me to an informational seminar at GMU about teaching,” said House.

Outside of the classroom, House is committed to raising his six children with his wife, Savannah. With shopping, cooking, laundry, cleaning, sports, church, Bible study, and time with friends, House claims free time can sometimes seem off the table.

“Yet, I wouldn’t trade a second of it. We thrive on supporting each other, especially in our athletic pursuits. My children join me at golf and basketball practices and games, and we’re all in when it comes to their activities, too. Wherever we go, we bring our own built-in cheering section.” He said he believes that when a family sticks together, nothing can stop them.

With the pressures it takes to be a teacher, some teachers may have different “personas” outside of the school setting. However, House said he strives to be the same person everywhere.

“Whether I’m on the golf course or the basketball court with our team, at the pool, at soccer games, at church, or here at school, I believe in carrying a genuine smile and a positive spirit with me wherever I go, because I want to encourage others and help create an uplifting environment,” he said.

With fatherhood being his top priority, House appreciates the balance the school allows their staff to have. In addition, he cherishes the bonds created between him and his colleagues, especially the ones with similar spiritual and moral values. House said he finds peace in the fact that they worship, coach, and support each other every day. Working together like this makes them better teachers and strengthens their lives in and outside of school.

For House, FCHS isn’t just a workplace. Having moved numerous places, and working previously at Charlottesville High School, he has experienced many different educational environments. Yet he said that Fluvanna stands out to him not only as a teacher, but also as a father. “[FCHS] truly supports its staff, not just as educators, but as people with priorities and responsibilities beyond the classroom,” said House.