From Supply Days to Supporting Future Teachers: Chris Szymus’ Path Back to Queen’s

For Chris Szymus, teaching has never been just a job—it’s a way to connect, inspire, and grow. Now back at Queen’s Faculty of Education, he’s channeling those experiences into preparing future teachers for the realities and rewards of the classroom.

Chris began his career with the Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic District School Board right after graduating from Queen's Faculty of Education. His early years were the kind of whirlwind many new teachers can relate to: early morning supply calls and last-minute assignments that taught him to stay flexible and ready for anything. He taught in various grades from Kindergarten to Grade 8, shifted between roles, and learned to adapt to the many surprises that teaching can bring.

“Supplying taught me who I was as a teacher,” he says. “You learn to be versatile, to adapt, and be ready for anything. And those are skills I love fostering with our teacher candidates. They’re so important.”

Eventually, Chris found his home in the primary grades. He loved their energy, their curiosity, and the way small moments became big milestones. But while he thrived in the classroom, another dream began pulling him forward: the idea of teaching teachers.

As a BEd student at the Faculty, Chris had been taught and deeply inspired by past instructor Shelley Mulrooney, who taught Physical Education. “She is a phenomenal educator. Everyone loved her class,” he recalls. “Getting the chance to work with her… it felt like working with one of your idols.” When Shelley approached retirement and a rare opportunity opened at Queen’s, Chris embraced the chance to give back.

Now, on secondment teaching in the Faculty of Education, Chris describes every class with one word: fun. “I’m so passionate about teaching phys ed, and teaching people how to teach phys ed. The students bring so much energy, and I’m just excited to share everything that was once shared with me."

What drives him most is connection—both with his students and with the local schools he once taught in. He believes Faculties of Education can play a bigger role in supporting young learners in the community, and he’s already working to make that happen. From welcoming local classes for collaborative workshops to organizing special events, Chris is eager to open the doors wide.

“I know how meaningful those sorts of experiences can be for students,” he says. “A change of scenery, a chance to learn from new people. It sticks with kids. And Queen’s has the space, the people, and the heart to make those moments happen.”

From supply days to the Faculty of Education, Chris’s journey has come full circle— and he’s grateful for the chance to help the next generation begin their own path into the classroom.