Striving for Excellence: A Q&A With Blair High School Teacher James Schafer

When James Schafer received the news he was a state finalist for teacher of the year, he was humbled. He is one of seven teachers in Maryland who have been given that honor this year.

But Schafer is no stranger to being recognized for his work with students. In April, he was named Teacher of the Year for Montgomery County Public Schools and was one of four county teachers who received the 2010 Awards for Excellence in Teaching from the Marian Greenblatt Education Fund.

Schafer, an eight-year veteran, teaches subjects that many students can find difficult: physics and math. At Montgomery Blair High School, he makes an effort to connect with his students every year, molding his lessons specifically for them.

On Saturday, the seven state finalists will sit for oral interviews, and the winner will be named on Oct. 8. The teacher who wins the statewide competition will go on to compete to be recognized nationally.

Last week, Schafer took the time to talk to Patch about his career at a teacher.

Patch: How do you feel about being selected as a state finalist for teacher of the year?

James Schafer: It's a great honor. Mostly it's a positive reflection of the teachers, administration and students that I teach. On a daily basis, the students are the most important aspect of my job. Especially when students come in ready to learn, it makes teaching a rewarding profession. My colleagues are also willing to help and share ideas, which fosters an environment of creativity and collaboration.

Patch: What drives you when you're working with students?

J.S.: For me, a big part of it is helping students learn and to keep them motivated and happy. When you talk to people about physics they say either two things: It's tough or easy. What I try to do is keep the lessons fun and neat.

When you have students who have a diverse background of experience, you can find events in their life to connect them to the lesson. It makes the lesson relevant and helps me guide and drive the class. There is no perfect way to do it. I have to be able to adapt to the situation.

Patch: How do you keep yourself and the class motivated?

J.S.: There is never a dull moment. I always have plenty to do, and the main thing for me is to keep things fresh and not relying on the lessons I did last year. I'm always thinking of ways to make it better for the kids.

Patch: What are some of the difficulties of your profession?

J.S.: The big issue is keeping up the energy. I have to make sure it stays that way throughout the day. It's important that the kid I saw at the start of the day gets the same energy as the last kid. I really work on keeping the students active and engaged. My goal is to know my students by face and name, so I can say hello to them in the hallways.