Eric Horchheimer, in his 27 years at Neshaminy High School (NHS), has found a way to keep students engaged day after day, in a subject that could have otherwise put them to sleep.
In recognition of his dedication to finding a better, more enjoyable way to teach and his commitment to learning, the Playwickian recognizes Mr. Horchheimer as Teacher of the month for June.
Since he started teaching nearly three decades ago, the science teacher has remained fiercely loyal to Neshaminy, only ever teaching at NHS from the start of his career to today.
However, Horchheimer wasn’t always settled on teaching science. Initially, as a college student, he majored in journalism. In his time studying journalism, Horchheimer struggled with “[putting himself] in the position of the recorder and observer.”
So, as he moved away from a future in journalism, Horchheimer decided to pursue a career in the field of science. This way, he was able to remain heavily involved in current events – like journalism – but was far more involved, rather than having to remain as an objective outsider like he would in journalism.
Now, as a science teacher at NHS, Horchheimer has taught several different subjects, though he currently teaches College Prep Chemistry and Earth and Space Science. Through these classes, Horchheimer continues to spread his love for science to his students, getting them interested in the natural world around them.
“It’s the constant interaction that [the students and I] have on a day-to-day basis with science… It’s never boring,” Horchheimer explained. “Every day is new.”
In his time as an educator, Horchheimer has adopted a unique approach to teaching that focuses on keeping students interested in what they are learning.
“I know that if I’m not enjoying it, the students probably aren’t enjoying it,” Horchheimer expressed.
Horchheimer ensures he makes the most out of every lesson, with his humor acting as a way to pull in students during lessons that may have otherwise become dull.
Whenever the lively teacher notices heads hitting desks, he knows he can “bank on some select [jokes] to either elicit a response or get a laugh. And then we’re back at it.”
On top of his particular style of teaching, Horchheimer also emphasized the changes he’s made to his curriculum to ensure engagement in the classroom.
“I have a number of assignments that I’ve basically taken out of my curriculum… because [they’re] boring… if that equates to fun and easy… to get your head around, then all the better,” the science teacher explained.
To ensure his classroom remains a safe atmosphere, Horchheimer ensures his jokes are “never at somebody’s expense.”
Similarly, as a Levittown native, he has specific insights that allow him to relate to his students. In his lessons he’ll bring up short anecdotes or mention local areas or stores, drawing comparisons with the topic at hand, helping most students’ gain a better understanding of the unit since they know exactly what he’s talking about, being from the same area.
“I’m teaching the people I know best,” Horchheimer further explained.
That same relatability and humor extend beyond the classroom and into Horchheimer’s relationships with coworkers. Whether in meetings, off periods, or in casual conversations, Horchheimer brings his sense of humor everywhere he goes. Though his jokes may vary from person to person, he claims he “always knows his audience.”
Year after year, Horchheimer proves that learning doesn’t have to be boring to be effective. Through his humor, energy, and commitment to keeping his students engaged, Horchheimer has created a classroom environment that stands out to students and staff alike.
