Jason Werstler, a 2001 91²Ö¿â graduate who majored in education, is one of 25 teachers across the nation who were recently recognized for teaching excellence. teaches construction at Massillon Washington High School in Massillon, Ohio.
He was selected as one of the top 25 out of more than 1,000 applications for the Harbor Freight Tools for Schools award, which celebrates skilled trades education in U.S. public high schools. Washington High School received $35,000, and Werstler received $15,000 for his work with students.
Werstler, who also holds a master’s degree in administration from Ashland University, taught math and science for 17 years before returning to college to obtain his career technical teaching certification. According to , Westler and his class compete in carpentry competitions and build a house each year for Habitat for Humanity.
In the interview, he called the recognition “humbling.â€
The prize is awarded by Harbor Freight Tools for Schools, a program of the Smidt Foundation, which was established by Harbor Freight Tools owner and founder Eric Smidt.
Learn more about 91²Ö¿â's School of Teaching, Learning and Curriculum Studies.