Chelsea’s ‘Steck’ To be Honored
At UVM as Outstanding Teacher
By Cornelia Cesari

Chelsea School’s Rich Steckler will be honored at UVM’s Outstanding Teachers Recognition Day October17.

Steckler, affectionately known as "Steck," is a thoughtful, soft-spoken man. However, his gentle manner may belie his fierce determination. When he decided to become a teacher, he said, he knew that he would not be rich or famous, but he made a vow to himself to be absolutely the best teacher he could be. 

Steckler has been an educator in Vermont for 24 years, teaching middle and high school science at Chelsea for the last 12. Currently, he teaches only high school classes—physical science, biology, chemistry, AP environmental science and science seminar. He holds two master’s degrees from UVM and is in the current class of the Snelling School Leadership Program.

Steckler’s ambition and continued professional development never leads him far from the classroom, however. It is here, in his science lab, where he shines, setting high standards for himself and for his students. Mutual respect is evident in all his interactions with students. He clearly cares deeply for his students and will advocate for them. He serves as an advisor to many students, encouraging them to reach higher, and to take advantage of all available opportunities. When Chelsea alumni come back to school, they always seem to seek out "Steck."

According to interim principal Barrett Williams, "Rich is always prepared for class and willing to differentiate instruction to meet the academic needs of our diverse student population. He is seen by members of our community as a master teacher who is willing to take on extra work, tasks, and duties for the benefit of the school and its students. He deserves to be recognized for his dedication to Chelsea Public School and for the kindness and compassion he shows his students day in and day out."

Despite the unusual workload of teaching many different courses, Steckler is an advocate of small schools and enjoys the attention he is able to give each student. He also feels he is able to give the students more independence in their learning and the freedom to explore. Regarding the recognition as an outstanding teacher, he modestly remarks, "I feel blessed to be able to live in such a beautiful place and earn my keep doing something I love to do."

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