A few years ago, Dr. Ghogomu, an Allderdice teacher from 1981 to 2015, received a call requesting that retired teachers return to school to be substitute teachers. His love for teaching and his students led him to agree to return. Many regard him as just another sweet substitute teacher, a familiar grinning face seen in the halls. However, this unlikely substitute has a shocking and fascinating backstory.

In 1981, Ghogomu traveled from Cameroon to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Although he was an experienced teacher in Cameroon, he had to start over and relearn to be permitted to teach in the U.S. He describes his experience teaching in the U.S. as “very difficult” compared to his position in Cameroon. Students in the States were not as disciplined as the kids he previously taught. He described many of the kids as rowdy and impolite. For example, in Cameroon, he was referred to by his students as “sir,” whereas at Allderdice, he is often greeted casually with “bro.” He soon adapted to this new reality, picking up on slang while simultaneously enforcing his authority. He is now respectfully known as “Mr. G” in the school hallways.

Ghogomu’s father was a tribal ruler–a king–of over 20,000 people, which granted him the status of a prince. In Cameroon, traditional rulers can marry as many wives as they desire, and polygyny is often practiced to showcase status and wealth. Ghogomu’s father had 51 wives, which earned him great respect and reinforced his impressive status. He lived honorably in a palace and ruled with confidence.

Ghogomu describes Cameroon as “different” from the United States in many ways. Cameroon's demographic profile is complex for a country of its size, with around 250 distinct ethnic groups. Cameroon has over 250 native languages; some estimates say there are as many as 600. Before learning English and French, Ghogomu’s first language was “Chrambo,” often spoken in his father's tribe.

In contrast to Allderdice, Ghogomu attended a private boarding school in Africa: a rigorous, church-run school. Every night, the bedtime was strict: 9:00 p.m. The early bedtime was necessary for the students to wake up at 5:30 a.m. to start their required manual labor. At Allderdice, the first bell rings at 7:40 a.m., more than 2 hours after Ghogomu’s day begins. Next time you find yourself dozing off in class, remember your luck.

After over three decades of working at Allderdice, Ghogomu says, “I'll do one more year.” I asked him if he plans to revisit or move back to Africa, and he replied casually, “I might move back to Cameroon or just stay here in Greenfield.”

After all his years here, Ghogomu has undoubtedly left his mark and become a memorable teacher, substitute, and coworker. His benevolence cannot be replicated or forgotten after he departs from the school. Royalty is roaming the halls of Allderdice. Next time you see him, consider bowing or just cracking a smile.