This month’s National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month is Mike Bischoff from Central Regional High School in Bayville, NJ. One of his nominators, Susan Keogh, wrote:
What amazes me of Mr. Bischoff was that he fought so hard to get back into the classroom after an accident that affected his mobility and do what he does very well and teach English to his students. Some accommodations needed to be implemented by Central Regional which staff and Administration did so eagerly so he could come back to his job and continue to make a difference in the lives of our students. It took resilience, healthy habits, confidence, empathy, healthy relationships and most importantly hope in the future for Mr. Bischoff to be an example not only to his co-workers but most importantly our students. He is an example of great character on a daily basis in the classroom or when you see him as you pass his classroom. He shows strength and is an inspiration to everyone. Today’s kids face so much more than 20 years ago. They need someone to look up to. I am so glad that not only us, his Central family, but each student that sits in his classroom are better today than yesterday. He deserves this not for what he went through but for how he exemplifies all those traits and then some. You really need to meet him and you will walk away in awe.
What do you teach? Are you involved with anything else at your school?
I have taught High School English 24 years (26 overall). In the past, I coached football, spring track, and was the head wrestling coach for 10 years.
What is something you appreciate about your school’s culture?
Again, positivity is key. As a coach, I always instilled a belief that the athletes in my program were “anything but typical.” What this means is that they had to buy into an attitude that they could rise above people’s limited expectations of them. This is not easily done. It requires a lot of hard work and patience. I like the fact that our students are starting to feel good about themselves, their coaches, their teachers, their admin, and everyone else involved in their school community.
What’s a favorite Renaissance moment for you?
There are many “little” things that our teachers have incorporated. One that stands out that the students seem to enjoy is “high five” Fridays. Teachers have giant foam fingers and “high five” students in the hallways in between periods or as they come into class.
How has Renaissance affected you personally?
It’s refreshing after 24 years at Central to see a complete “renaissance” in morale. Happy teachers are productive teachers, in turn, happy students are successful students.
What is something you are “All In” for inside or outside of school?
Well, I’m very much about building resilience. I want each of my students to take pride and responsibility in his or her academics regardless of grade. This can be a tough sell to students who are a bit more reluctant and are too comfortable relying on other people to do things or fix things for them all the time. Grit is a personality trait I suggest they learn to acquire as soon as possible when they begin my course. I also try to exhibit a personal character filled with gratitude to share with those around me.The past couple of years have truly tested my ability to be appreciative of the opportunities I have been given and all that remain. People who tend to practice gratitude experience more positive emotions and better deal with adversity. I know I have more to accomplish, more to teach, more to pass on. I am forever grateful that I am a teacher. It is important to me now, as a person with a “new” permanent disability, that I continue on as a living, breathing example to others. I want to be sure to practice what I preach so that my students know I am genuine in what I say and do. Before he died, Chicago Bears hall of famer Walter Payton (very sick at the time) called his good friend and business partner, Mike Lanigan on the telephone. [Paraphrasing] He said to Mike, “I have good news and bad news.” Lanigan asked, “What’s the bad news?” Payton said, “I’m not going to be around much longer.” Shocked, Lanigan then asked, “Don’t tell me that Walter, what’s the good news?” Payton calmly said, “I’m alive today.” Think about that. Payton wanted each of his remaining days to be special. How is that for gratitude?
What advice would you give to someone who is looking to build resilience?
Life isn’t easy, nor should it be. Pick yourself up, stick your chest out, lift up your chin, smile, and go out and face the world. Remember also, it’s okay to fail. We learn far more from our failures than we do from our successes. It is absolutely okay to work outside your comfort zone.
Mike Bischoff will receive a coffee tumbler and a lapel pin in recognition of his achievements.