This school year, Herkimer Central School District is focusing the Spotlight Q&A feature on Herkimer CSD alumni who are giving back to the school community by working in the district as teachers or staff.
Spotlight on: Zachary Steele
Ninth grade social studies teacher
“Being able to positively impact the lives of students in the same school where so many teachers and staff members helped me grow as an individual is an amazing full circle experience.”
Q. What year did you graduate from Herkimer?
A. I graduated from Herkimer in 2015.
Q. What’s your favorite high school memory?
A. My favorite high school memory would be the amazing times on the football and baseball fields with some of my best friends. Especially winning a sectional title in the Carrier Dome my junior year, with my father as my coach.
Q. What led you to become a teacher?
A. I have loved the school setting and having the ability to teach about my passion, in history, and helping students realize and achieve their goals is the most rewarding feeling you can have.
Q. What else have you been doing between when you graduated from Herkimer and now?
A. Upon my graduation from HHS, I attended Utica College to major in history as well as continue my athletic career on the football field, where I was more than honored to be voted Special Teams Player of the Year by my teammates in 2018. In 2019, I received my bachelor’s degree in history and was accepted into a graduate program that same year. In 2021, I received my master’s degree from Utica College in secondary education!
Q. Did anyone from Herkimer Central School District influence you in becoming who you are today?
A. I had many people from HHS that helped influence me into who I am today, starting with both of my parents who continue to work at the school. Others that stick out to me and have had a major impact on my life in many different aspects of life are Mr. DePaolo, Mr. Izzo, Mr. Watkins, Mr. Alexander and Mr. Brown.
Q. What makes you most excited or most fulfilled about working at Herkimer after previously going to school here?
A. Being able to positively impact the lives of students in the same school where so many teachers and staff members helped me grow as an individual is an amazing full circle experience. To have the ability to give back to the community and students in Herkimer after everything this community and school has helped me accomplish is one of the most exciting parts of being at HHS.
Q. What advice do you have for current Herkimer students?
A. Never let anyone tell you what you should be doing. Do what makes you happy and fulfilled, and you will have a great life. It is always a great day for a great day.