Getting to Know Me!

My name is Chris Zitka. I am from Muskegon, Michigan and I have lived there all of my life. I have one brother and sister, and I have 4 completely adorable nephews. I just recently got engaged this summer and that was very exciting! I love sports and I was a three sport athlete in high school while playing baseball, running cross county, and wrestling. This year is my sixth year coaching at Orchard View High School, which is also where I went to school. I coached the varsity cross country team for two years, while also coaching the middle school wrestling team. This past year I was offered the varsity wrestling position and I have become very passionate about it! Along with coaching, I also have worked at Menards for the past five years.

Before attending Grand Valley, I received my Associate's Degree from Muskegon Community College. Now I am finishing up my final year as an undergraduate and pursuing my degree in Secondary Education. Originally, I was a math major with a physical education minor, but I had a change of heart and am now an earth science major with a biology minor. I knew from an early age that I wanted to become a teacher, as I knew that I wanted to be able to impact student lives just as my previous teachers have impacted mine. For this semester, I am placed at Oakridge Middle
School in Muskegon, and I am beyond excited to begin my placement on Tuesday!

In my spare time, I love doing things outdoors. Going to the beach, riding my seadoo, and hanging out with friends are some of my favorite things to do during the summer. I also really enjoy working out and staying physically active. That is one of my biggest stress relievers! I am a huge Detroit Lions fan (sometimes I have no idea why), so on Sundays you can catch me sitting on the couch and yelling at my tv.

I am really looking forward to a great semester!

My fiance and I at our friend's wedding this summer!