STEM educator Corey Hafer has been named Delaware’s 2024 State Teacher of the Year. Photo Credit: Delaware Live
There are many outstanding educators in the United States who are deserving of recognition for the work they do with our young people. Some of them are honored each year by education officials in the state where they live. One of these is Cory Hafer, a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) teacher from Delaware. He has been named his state’s 2024 Teacher of the Year.
Corey earned his Bachelor’s degree in Cellular and Molecular Biology at the University of Michigan in 2009. Soon after, he began work as a research technician for infectious diseases at Columbia University Irving Medical Center. While there, he discovered a passion for teaching, so he volunteered to lead learning experiences in the lab for students in New York City Public Schools. He returned to the university to continue his education, earning a Master’s degree in Biology Education from Columbia University in 2012.
Once he earned his Master’s degree, Cory accepted a position as a classroom teacher in Brooklyn. He taught chemistry, biology, forensic science, and theory of knowledge. Today, he teaches engineering courses at Middletown High School in Middletown, Delaware. He also advises the Technology Student Association and coaches tennis there. He has taught at Middletown since 2019. In all, his career as an educator spans 11 years.
“There are so many things I enjoy about teaching,” says Corey. “The first that comes to mind is always the excitement that shows on students’ faces when they finally realize they can do something challenging that they didn’t realize they could do,” he reveals. “When we start off year three of engineering, many students are intimidated by the equations they have to master. The first time they can apply the skill and realize they have mastered it is fun to watch!” he continues. “But even more than that, it is the learning that comes with teaching. Teaching concepts makes you learn them more deeply,” he concludes.
To read more about Corey Hafer, click on this link to an interview published by Appoquinimink School District.
