When most people spend seven years earning a law degree and passing the bar, they don’t typically trade the courtroom for a classroom. But that’s exactly what Seymour High School AP Government, US Government, and US History teacher Brian Chelius did, and he couldn’t be happier with his decision. Mr. Chelius started teaching at Seymour High School last year and has shared his journey to get here.
“I really enjoyed being a lawyer,” Chelius said. “But when you first get into law and for most of your career you’re working long hours, 80-hour weeks under extreme stress; it’s intense.”
After meeting his wife and wanting to start a family, he began to rethink what kind of life he wanted. “I wanted to have a family and a social life. Teaching is still challenging, but I enjoy it a lot more, and I get more time for my family and friends,” he said.
Although teaching wasn’t a brand new idea, it took time for it to take root. “I majored in history in college and thought about becoming a teacher, but I chose law, mostly for the pay if I’m being honest.” But while being a substitute teacher on the side, Mr. Chelius came to a realization: “I realized that having money, which I did have more money as a lawyer, isn’t it all. Having money is no substitute for having a real passion for what you do.”
Before joining Seymour, Chelius didn’t have a specific school in mind, but he knew we wanted a community-oriented school. “I went to private Catholic schools, but I wanted to teach somewhere more diverse, somewhere with a lot of different types of students and personalities,” he said. “Seymour’s a great balance. It’s big enough for variety, but small enough that you still know people.”
While he may be somewhat new to teaching at Seymour, his professionalism has not gone unnoticed. He still wears dress shirts and ties to class, a habit carried over from his lawyer days. “I’ve noticed students seem to take you a bit more seriously when you look the part,” he laughed.
Even with his law license still active, Chelius doesn’t plan to return to the courtroom anytime soon. “I could technically go back,” he said, “but it’s expensive to maintain. I’d have to take continuing classes that cost thousands. It’s easier to keep my license and not practice,” he continued, “but I really enjoy teaching, and my law background actually helps. Students in my AP Government class get dual college credit because of my degree.”
When asked for advice for high schoolers, Chelius emphasized planning and self-worth. “It’s good to plan ahead,” he said. “Choose something you enjoy that can also support your goals. Surround yourself with people who respect you for who you are. Don’t settle for less than you deserve.”
And his final message: “Shout out to all of my students,” he said with a smile, “I think they’re all great.”
