There is being humble in victory and there is being genuinely surprised. Consider recently named Seneca High School Teacher of the Year Dave Knecht the latter.
“I was definitely shocked and honored,” Knecht said. “We work with so many dedicated staff members, so being recognized is truly an honor.”
Principal Jeff Spector first presented Knecht with the award at a staff meeting in December. Sharing that moment with his colleagues was a special moment.
“The staff has been so supportive since I was a student teacher here,” Knecht said. “It’s been an amazing group to work with since I first started at Seneca.”
Knecht, a Gloucester City native, worked as a student teacher at Seneca while obtaining his degree from The College of New Jersey. Upon graduating, he learned the school was hiring an English teacher. The match was a perfect one for Knecht.
“It was great, it was where I wanted to be,” Knecht said. “The students and the staff make it an amazing place to work. The students love to go to the school. I really noticed the excitement of the teachers and the kids when I student taught and it was something I wanted to be a part of.”
Now in his sixth year at the school, Knecht also works with a number of clubs and organizations, including the National Honor Society, debate team, gay-straight alliance and as an advisor for the class of 2014. The transition of those students from freshmen to seniors was a quick one.
“I can’t believe how fast it has gone,” Knecht said. “It’s been a quick four years for sure watching them go through school.”
Hearing the announcement of him winning the award go over the loudspeaker while in class with his students was enjoyable for Knecht.
“It was really nice. They were clapping and congratulating me,” Knecht said. “The students really got into it and were excited for me, which was great.”
Teachers can nominate one another and the nominees are then presented to a committee of administrators and staff before a decision is made. This is the 11th time Seneca has presented the award to one of its educators.
The school’s previous winners are: Gary Williams, science 2004–2005; Nancy Stapleford, social studies 2005–2006; Gail Griffin, math 2006–2007; Ron Jensen, social studies 2007–2008; Lisa Berezansky, science 2008–2009; Elizabeth Strittmatter, English 2009–2010; Sandy Langan, special education 2010–2011; Tracy Betts, English 2011–2012; Greg Bauer, science 2012–2013; and Rich Watson, science 2013–2014.
