Barry Warren, Sports Education Director at North Tampa Christian Academy, found his calling during a college history class.
It all started when he was working toward his degree in History and Physical Education at Southwestern Adventist University. A history professor inspired him to become a teacher. After SWAU, he went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics at Bismarck State University and a master’s in Secondary Leadership and Supervision from the University of Missouri. Warren has since been in the education field for 39 years.
Before he pursued education, Warren wanted to be a doctor. Now, he enjoys helping children by teaching them and encouraging them to enjoy learning the way he does. One subject he especially enjoys teaching children about is math.
“I think math is so cool, and I try to generate that excitement in my students,” Warren said.
Over the years, Warren has learned that in teaching, he shouldn’t stress over what he can’t control. Instead, he needs to prioritize the most important things. Working at a Christian school, one of those priorities is showing his students God’s love. He hopes all of his students see the positive side of having God in their lives.
One of Warren’s hobbies is reading all kinds of books, especially the Bible. Aside from the Bible, which is his favorite book, he enjoys reading anything by Tom Clancy. He also likes to stay active by playing golf, riding his Harley, spending time with family and playing with his dogs. His family consists of several dogs, mostly miniature Daschunds. Family time is so important to Warren that, if he won the lottery, he said he would buy his grandfather’s old farm and turn it into a hub for family gatherings.
Warren has been to many places in his life, and his favorite so far is Kaua’i, Hawaii. When he was young, he lived in several states, including Texas, Oklahoma, Indiana and Arizona. Arizona is the one he considers his home state. In his college years, he found himself in Texas, North Dakota, and Missouri. He now lives in Florida, where he teaches students that they have the power to overcome any circumstance.
“I hope students take away the idea that anyone can make a positive difference in their world, no matter what challenges they face when growing up!” Warren said.
The most rewarding part of working at NTCA has been watching students grow into productive adults who use their power to make a difference.
Get to Know Barry Warren
If you could have dinner with three people, dead or alive, who would you choose? Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain), David (Bible), my mom.
What's your favorite movie or TV show? Princess Bride.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be? I would love to fly!
What is your favorite Bible verse or passage? Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be? Nachos!
At North Tampa Christian Academy, a Tampa private school, students thrive thanks to teachers and educators like Barry Warren. Faculty and families work together to inspire leadership through Christian innovation. Contact us today to learn more.