Meet Mr. Thomas Vitkus: Trinidad School District #1’s New High School Science Teacher
Trinidad School District #1 is thrilled to welcome Mr. Thomas Vitkus as the new high school science teacher. Born and raised in Wichita, Kansas, Mr. Vitkus brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for education and wildlife to our community. Mr. Vitkus’s life journey is rooted in wildlife and education. He graduated from Southeast High School in Wichita before pursuing higher education at Friends University. There, he earned dual bachelor’s degrees in Conservation Biology and Zoo Science. His academic journey didn’t stop there, he is currently working towards a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction while participating in the alternative licensure pathway at Adams State University.
Initially, Mr. Vitkus aspired to become a zookeeper. He had the incredible opportunity to work with a variety of animals, including elephants, reptiles, small mammals, and gorillas at Sedgwick Zoo in Kansas. His career path led him to the Standard Reptile Company, where he bred snakes as a practicum keeper. It was during these experiences he discovered his love for teaching guests about animals.
Mr. Vitkus’s passion for education grew as he transitioned to working at an outdoor education center and a summer camp. His journey eventually brought him to the Youth Club of Trinidad and then to Trinidad School District #1, where he served as a substitute teacher. His dedication and enthusiasm for teaching were evident when he accepted a long-term substitute position at Trinidad High School. Reflecting on this experience, Mr. Vitkus shared, “Being a long-term substitute convinced me to pursue teaching and confirmed teaching is what I wanted to do.”
Outside the classroom, Mr. Vitkus is an avid animal lover and caretaker. His home is a mini-zoo, housing two boa constrictors, a Columbian Rainbow boa, a Red-Eared Slider turtle, Madagascar Hissing cockroaches, a Karst Shepherd mix dog named Lina, a Bearded Dragon, pet rats and a tank full of fish. When he is not tending to his animals, he enjoys hiking and camping, particularly tent camping in the snow at San Isabel National Forest. Additionally, Mr. Vitkus is a fan of playing board and video games.
Mr. Vitkus’s diverse background and passion for both science and education make him a valuable addition to Trinidad School District #1. We are excited to see the positive impact he will have on our students and the community. Welcome, Mr. Vitkus!