Q Why did you choose to become a educator?
A I started coaching at the high school level before I graduated from college. This proved to me that I loved working with young people and I loved the content of U.S. History. It was a natural mix to become a teacher. I became an assistant principal when a vacancy occurred mid-year and I agreed to take the job for the remainder of the school year; if I was guaranteed I could go back to teaching at the end of the school year. That was 5 years ago.
Q How does it feel to be named assistant principal of the year?
A It is a humbling honor because a great deal of the work that leads to my success is completed by staff and students. If they are not successful, then I am not successful. This is especially true of the teaching staff in the ninth-grade academy at Dickinson.
Q What is your single biggest day-to-day challenge?
A Getting students to see the value in their education. The students who can delay immediate gratification to reach long-term goals are usually very successful.
| ABOUT KOHAN Name: Christopher Kohan Age: 37 Family members: Amy, wife and Lauren, step-daughter How long have you been in your position: third year at Dickinson Other places you have worked: Christina School District, Glasgow High School 1995-2006 High School & graduation year: Glasgow High School Class of 1991 College & degree earned: University of Delaware, BA in history education 1995 Wilmington University, M.Ed. in school leadership 2000 Other schooling & degrees earned: National Board of Professional Teaching Standards certification in adolescent/young adulthood social studies 2005 Book you’re always recommending: "Mornings on Horseback" by David McCollough Movie you’re always recommending: High Noon |
Q What is the best advice you’ve given?
A My father gave me the same advice all through high school and still gives it to me today whenever I walk out of his front door, “Don’t do anything stupid.” It is advice that covers everything.
Q Where do you see yourself in five years?
A I see myself as a more experienced, more effective assistant principal at a more successful John Dickinson High School.
Q What did you want to be when you grew up?
A Hard working and successful. My parents instilled this work ethic in me at an early age through school and sports.
