Playwickian.com - Teacher of the Issue: Stephen Shroeder

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Playwickian.com

December 2000

Schroeder makes history come alive in class

B-Hall is just another typical hallway at Neshaminy, right? Well, guess again. This is where Stephen Schroeder, an 11th-grade American studies teacher, and an 12th-grade U.S. history teacher can be found.

Most students have a few classes where they walk into and go to sleep or write notes to friends. But that’s what makes Schroeder’s classes different.
“Schroeder makes history significant by relating it to today’s world,” senior Dan Schatz said. “He keeps class conversations open, and that makes it fun.”
Class conversations can range from Sunday’s Eagles game to presidential issues. Schroeder is always upbeat and his sense of humor puts everyone in a learning mood.

“I think watching kids enjoying class on a daily basis is the most important thing,” Schroeder said. “I really think it’s the little things that matter most.”

Schroeder, raised in Bucks County and a graduate of William Tennet High School, began teaching at Neshaminy in 1972 after he got his bachelor’s degree from Thiel College in Greenville, Pa., and his master’s degree in history from Ohio University.

Schroeder's decision to choose the teaching profession was inspired by two professors at Thiel College. He took the chance and it paid off. He has taught numerous classes including world cultures, environmental studies, psychology, consumer skills, American studies, and U.S. history. This proves how vast the depth of Shroeder's education is.It is the students who are the beneficiaries.

Throughout his career Shroeder feels that the advancement in technology has made the biggest impact in the schools. “The information is closer to people,” he expressed.

Schroeder is a real character with a variety of interests. “I think people need to do things that set themselves apart from other people,” he said.

As an outdoors sport enthusiast, Schroeder enjoys golfing, mountain biking, canoeing, camping, backpacking, and spending time with his wife, Joy and son, Stephen.

Who would have thought that learning and having fun were two things that went together? But the students who spend 45 minutes a day with Schroeder see just how possible it is.

“I love how Mr. Schoeder took the time in class to discuss current events, “ senior Lauren Albanese said. “He did such a great job connecting history and current events making it meaningful for the students.” Although Schroeder is in the twilight of his career, planning to retire in two to five years, his teachings will never be history.

Matt Sturman
Staff Writer