Mister Rutter

I have been teaching for more than 20 years, most of them at Spring-Ford High School in Pennsylvania. Dually-certified in English and Social Studies, I began by teaching at an alternative school, then found a long-term sub gig in social studies, then finally landed a job teaching world literature and American literature at Spring-Ford. Soon I began teaching a 12th-grade psychology elective, and a few years later I went to social studies full time. I have been teaching 10th-grade History and 12th-grade psychology ever since. I advised the staff of our student newspaper publication, the Rampage, from 2001 to 2018.

As an instructor I am animated and fun, yet formal and methodical. I believe that education can and should be enjoyable, though I take learning very seriously. My classroom is tightly managed, yet has an environment that is open, tolerant and full of laughter--all things that strengthen learning. I expect my students to challenge themselves to think, and I engage them directly during class time to get them to do so.

As a graduating senior I received the English Dept. award from Perkiomen Valley High School in 1988; as an undergraduate I received the Robert A. Heilman award for poetry from the English Dept. of Indiana University of PA in 1993; I graduated Magna Cum Laude at Kutztown University of PA in 1998; as a teacher I have received several Senior Impact awards at Spring-Ford High School (nominated by former students).

Indiana University of Pennsylvania--B.A. English; Kutztown University--B.S. Secondary Education / English & Social Studies; Temple University--M.A. World History Gettysburg College--Post-graduate credits in American History

I am the father of a grown son, I play the guitar and write songs, and I like to cook. I hope my instructional materials will be used to further the cause of learning around the world.