This morning in Mr Waechtler’s math class, Superintendent Stock visited to make a special announcement: Mr. Waechtler has been named Rocklin Unified School District’s Teacher of the Year for Secondary Education (that’s 7th through 12th grades).

Mr. Waechtler is known for his eccentric personality that permeates into his teaching style. His personality pushes him to try new and interesting ways to engage and teach his student, and he has obviously been very successful.

“One of the things that really set Craig apart is his willingness to take risks.” said Mr. Stewart, an assistant principal here at RHS, “You’ll see him doing the homecoming floats, acting out Star Wars characters, to his work at the Faculty Follies, stuff you would not think is part of his normal character as math instructor.”

Stewart explained that there is no shortage of factors that contribute to his success,

“He’s probably one of the most unassuming guys that I know, and his dedication and his commitment to student learning, his ability to keep the focus on that.”

Mr. Waechtler was quite modest about being recognized like this,

“I’m humbled. I work with a lot of great teachers, and they’ve helped me become the teacher that I am.”

Waechtler was quick to attribute his success to this people he works with and the environment he works in, which both help him to excel,

“Being able to be comfortable trying new things, and discussing what works and what doesn’t work with my peers has helped me become a better teacher. It’s alright to try something different and see how it works.”

Of course, this is a great honor. Each district reviews their best teachers, and those teachers are evaluated by the county. Each county in California selects the best teacher from among those candidates, and they are reviewed at the state level.

Several RHS teachers have gotten this award in the past, including Mr. Spears, who was selected as the best teacher in Placer County.

Waechtler has plenty to be proud of, this achievement is quite commendable. he is, however, quick to give the credit to his peers,

“My entire department has helped me become a better teacher with the discussions we have.”

Despite his modesty, Waechtler has pioneered new methods of teaching that get his students engaged. This constant push to become a better teacher has made him more than worthy of recognition as the best teacher in the Rocklin Unified School District.