Seth Erstein
Position: English Teacher
School: Palm Beach Gardens High School
School District: Palm Beach County Schools
City, State: Palm Beach Gardens, FL
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Seth Erstein was nominated by an anonymous former student.
Now in his sixth year at Palm Beach Gardens High School, Mr. Erstein teaches both English IV and an AICE General Paper course. He is a Google Certified Educator and a member of the District’s Technology Trailblazers program, which allows teachers to build their school’s digital culture and lead the way in delivering tech-driven instruction that resonates with today’s learners.
"Without a doubt, Mr. Erstein is the best teacher I have ever had,” the nominator said. “Even after graduating from PBCSD, I still realize how important his lessons were and how they still apply to my current college classes. Thank you, Mr. Erstein, for being the coolest, kindest and most amazing English teacher in Palm Beach County.”
I know i'm a bit late, but Mr.Erstein is an incredible teacher and mentor. Besides showing a lot of passion for what he teaches, he's also dedicated to making sure students are connecting in some way with what he is educating us on. Not only that, but he listens to his students and the lives they have. He connects beyond academics. His heart is as huge as his knowledge and intelligence. I was very lucky and very priveldged to have him as a teacher. He has much more then just my respect and support. Seth Erstein is definitely a life changer, every year, to many people, well beyond his students and collegues.
Seth Erstein has been a steady source of encouragement to myself and my students of ASD. His knowledge and perseverance to go that extra mile to meet the needs of the students is a rare and needed quality. I would highly recommend him for "The Life Changer of the Year Award".
Wow! To be nominated a second time just goes to show how amazing Seth is. As I stated the last time he was nominated, Seth possesses every attribute you’d want in an educator. He is knowledgeable, passionate, dedicated, caring, and innovative. He gets through to his students because they know he has their best interests at heart. Seth has a way of connecting with people due to his big heart and giving spirit. I am very lucky to have him in my life, and so are his students.
Warm and welcoming, yet sensible and straightforward, Seth is an asset to both students and staff. He consistently refines his professional development and shares his best practices with others.
There are times when you as a teacher encounter one of your colleagues not only as a wonderful teacher, but also a wonderful person. In my 47 years in the teaching profession, Seth is one of the most compassionate teachers i have worked with or have known. He goes above and beyond to assist our students.and this truly comes from his heart. With all of the serious mental health concerns we as teachers see through out the school day, we so need to be that teacher that can see beyond the outward behaviors of a child coming to school each day. Seth is truly one of those teachers.
I would certainly consider him Lifechanger of the Year Award.
Seth is absolute amazing. He is dedicated to his students and eager to assist his collegues. But even more, he reaches out to students who are studying to become teachers and mentors them. He always offers help; he doesn't wait until someone asks. I truly believe that he has changed the lives of many students and collegues alike.
Seth Erstein is an amazing man, teacher, colleague, and friend. He has a passion for teaching and for his students. He is in the classroom way before the sun rises in order to prepare his engaging lessons and never takes a rest from shaping the lives of today's youth. He is organized, encouraging, supportive, and genuinely kind. Outside of his profession, he is a devoted father and husband, balancing life with a peaceful demeanor. He has certainly been a "Life Changer" in the lives of many students and a "breath of fresh air" to the many colleagues he has encountered.
Seth is a colleague of mine. He always has a positive attitude, and is also willing to help out his students and his colleagues alike. The students are always talking about what a great teacher he is, and how much they love his class. I can't think of any other teacher who is more deserving of this away than him. He is truly inspiring.
Seth Erstein is not only an amazing teacher but an inspiration to others around him. Seth has always been dedicated to his career and his family and maintains the highest ethics and values while doing so. He cares so deeply about the positive impact he is making on his students and those around him. His passion for teaching is so inspiring and I am so happy to support his nomination for the life changer award!
Mr. Erstein is, without a doubt, one of the most influential people in my life. He is my big brother as well as my best friend. He not only made sure I listened to the best music growing up, but he also inspired me to become an educator. I remember when Seth was only a Senior in high school, he was in a program that allowed him to teach drama class to underclassmen. I was only in the 9th grade. It was crazy for me to think that my big brother would be a teacher. A few of my friends were even in his class and I remember how excited they were when he taught them. However, what I found most inspirational was not my friends’ reactions, but how passionate and excited Seth was to teach that class. When talking with him, it is easy to see that his flame has not died out and the excitement and passion that drove him many years ago, still drives him today. As I’m sure most of you can tell just by reading a few of the comments from others, Seth Erstein is a kind and passionate person,and his love for people shows in all that he does. I’ve known for years how amazing my big brother is and I am delighted that he has been nominated for the Life Changer of The Year Award.
Mr. Erstein is hands down one of the best teachers I had in high school. I loved walking into his class because he always had such a positive attitude and he was always there for his students if they needed help. He always made sure everyone was doing the best they possibly could and he genuinely cared about the well being of his students. One memory I have from his class is the dreaded senior paper, I was not looking forward to this. Mr. Erstein was there for me and all of his students through every step of writing this paper. He made me not mind writing my paper and actually enjoy it. He always had great feedback and constructive criticism which helped me perfect my paper. He is a great role model for his students and I can’t think of any other teacher who deserves this award more then he does. I am so thankful that I had the chance to have him as a teacher.
Mr. Erstein was my AICE General Papers my sophomore year at PBGHS. He not only taught us how to write to the best of our abilities, he taught us how to work together in an effective, fun way. From sophomore year of high school, going into my sophomore year of college, I still use the skills I acquired in his class and am thankful for what I learned from him every day. Not only is Mr. Erstein a fantastic teacher, he is a great person and mentor to boot. I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this award than him.
Mr. Erstein is a dedicated, resourceful, and goal-driven professional educator with a solid commitment to the social and academic growth and development of every student, including my daughter, Lauren. He is open-minded, inspiring, committed, and has an intrinsic belief that everyone can and will learn in a loving and nurturing environment.
As a parent and teacher, I feel that he is most deserving of this award because he made Lauren a stronger communicator and leader. He is a fantastic role model to not only his students, but to everyone he comes in contact with.
Seth is smart and fantastic at his job. His kind disposition and willingness to help anyone (students and colleagues alike) make him most deserving of this award. His colleagues think just as much of him as his kids do.
I am proud of my nephew, Seth Erstein, for being nominated for the Lifechanger Honor. Seth always stood tall and strong when it comes to his passion, teaching. He was hired as a very qualified English Teacher, but in addition, he became the advisor of the student lgbtq club, he was also the advisor for the Drama club and the Jewish Student Union. With Seth, you always get more than expected because his mission is always met with dedication and compassion.
Defining Seth, He lives a life of "Tikkun Olam", it's in his soul. The definition of Tikkun olam - a catch phrase to describe social activism, opposition to injustice, and efforts to improve society and repair the world.The concept that we have a moral duty to society Improving Society Repairing the Universe.
Ever since Middle School, Seth (Mr. E) knew he wanted to be a teacher. Since then he has gone on to, and continues to, hone his craft. Listening to him develop lesson plans that will not only teach his lessons but also to challenge his students to challenge themselves. These are the types of skills his students are able to carry on way beyond the classroom. He is devoted to his students and has an eagerness to develop new ways to encourage his students to learn and believe in themselves. His love of theater, music, literature and history can be found in all his lessons as well as a great sense of humor. His use of new technology amazes even me and I worked with computers and applications for over 35 years. He is able to blend it all seamlessly with his classroom and students. Knowing Seth is a fantastic and dedicated teacher as well a wonderful husband, father, uncle, and his father, I can say son. I am very proud to be his father. It is no surprise to me that he has been nominated for this honor (twice). It is also fantastic, as a parent, to read what his students, peers and others have written about Mr. Seth Erstein.
Mr. Erstein is without a doubt one of the most influential teachers I have ever had. Even now, three years after being in his class, I still use the academic and "life" lessons he taught me as a sophomore. Mr. Erstein always made sure his students' opinions were heard, even if he didn't agree with them. One crucial skill I learned from Mr. Erstein is how to adapt to what life throws at you. Even with having a large class, full of students who learned in all different ways, Mr. Erstein made sure to adapt his lessons to be teachable for each and every student. I will never forget the time I told him that I felt like I learned better standing up because we were forced to sit still in every class...Mr. Erstein simply said, "okay then, stand up." Even though this is just a small action, it shows his character well. He truly cares about his students and wants what is best for them. Even after moving into my junior year, Mr. Erstein made sure to say hello any time we passed each other in the hallway or around campus. He is one of the coolest, most thoughtful, and influencial teachers I have ever had and I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this award.
I want to start off by saying there are few things I regret in life, but one of the main things I regret is never having Mr. Erstein as a teacher. Instead, I knew him as Mr. E, the Drama Club advisor. I know from friends he was a great teacher inside the classroom, but I learned he was a great teacher outside of the classroom. I attended Palm Beach Gardens High School for four years, graduating in 2016. During those four years, I learned about how to explore my creative side, and gained the knowledge of theatre and improv in order to develop my future goals of working on Broadway one day. The games that he taught during improv lessons allowed me to step outside my comfort zone, and gain the confidence I need to interact with others. Even though my dreams vary, from Broadway to the big screen, he always had an inspiring word. He was one of my cheerleaders that encouraged me to keep moving forward. I'll never forget him introducing me to musicals and the Tony Awards. If I ever make it on the Tony Awards, he will be one of the main people that I thank, as he was the one who introduced me into this wonderful world.
I’m proud to say that Seth Erstein is my nephew and that he has been nominated for a second year for the Life-changer of the Year Award. As an educator myself, I understand the value of making an impact on the lives of the students we teach. Seth not only has an outstanding knowledge of the curriculum he teaches, but has mastered the art of teaching, as well. He is passionate about finding ways to connect the curriculum to his students’ lives, which engages them and makes them open to learning. He has an innate way of understanding his students’ needs and builds a relationship of trust and openness, which impacts the whole student, their education, and their lives. I feel that Seth is most deserving of the Life-changer of the Year Award.
As a graduate from the Palm Beach County school system, I have had upwards of 60 teachers from when I entered Kindergarten to when I graduated. Each teacher that I had was unique in their teaching styles and personalities, but only one could truly be described as life-changing.
During my sophomore year of high school, I was beyond fortunate to have Mr. Erstein as my English teacher. It always blew my mind how Mr. Erstein would be able to teach his classes and run multiple after school clubs, yet he was always down to read and critique an essay for you.
Our AICE General Paper class consisted of analyzing the latest news articles and discussing them among the class. He taught us to be aware of the ever-changing world around us, applying real world skills to the material we were learning. While teaching a college level class to sophomores in high school, he always kept a smile on his face and was there for us whenever we needed him.
I am now going into my sophomore year in college and I am blessed that I was able to meet Mr. Erstein along my high school journey. I am currently going to school for broadcast meteorology and if it wasn’t for Mr. Erstein believing and encouraging me to follow my dreams, I wholeheartedly do not believe I would be where I am today. It is so refreshing to have a role model who displays compassion, leadership, and kindness like Mr. Erstein. I hope to have half of the people skills that he has, so I can inspire and change lives as he has done for my peers and I.
His professional and yet still very caring and impactful teaching style is one of the few reasons what helped me get over the anxiety of senior year. Definitely one of the best teachers I've ever encountered in my life.
I am Seth Erstein’s aunt and we have always had a very special bond. I used to look forward to our time together as a learning experience- for me. As a teenager Seth would introduce me to many new things, like artist M.C. Escher or more rare musical artists like Tom Waits or Pearl Jam. We could spend hours discussing George Orwell’s 1984; a recent episode of The Simpsons; or the day’s headlines. Through the years I know that with my nephew I can have a challenging, informative dialogue about any topic. I’ve always known Seth to have an open, curious mind and he has always been willing and able to understand other points of view. One of the most important traits that he has- one that is a requirement for all leaders- is respect. He was raised in a family who not only loved but respected each other. He knows that everything positive grows from respect. Respect is integral to who he is as a family man, educator and global citizen. From this he has learned tolerance and the ability to connect with all people. Reading the other comments in this application, I can see how my nephew has positively impacted the students he has educated and has earned the respect of his peers. I can think of no one who is more hard-working, motivated or deserving of this recognition. Spend 5 minutes with Seth and you will walk away from him having learned something new.
I can’t think of another person more deserving of this prestigious award than Seth. He is the kind of educator all should aspire to be: dedicated, knowledgeable, patient, and kind. I am so proud of him always. He continues to go above and beyond for his students always.
Seth Erstein is a former student of mine. He was in my methodology course at Florida Atlantic University. I knew then, he was destined for greatness. His passion was only second to his desire to be an educator. Seth’s willingness to push himself to excellence made him stand out from his classmates. Reading the various comments from his former students let’s me know I was right about him. It comes as no surprise that Seth is so loved by all whose lives he touched. Most definitely he has and continues to make a difference. I’m so proud and honored to have had the opportunity to teach and get to know Seth Erstein.
Working with Seth for 4 years at PBG High School, he is always willing to help. He is not only a great teacher to students but also to the teachers on PDD’s, I can she why his students loved his class. He made learning google classroom so exciting.
He worked very closely with our ESE staff and was always willing to help and attend meeting whenever needed.
He is such a great asset to the teaching profession, I am so fortunate to have worked alongside him.
My name is Scott Podradchik, and I am a middle school language arts teacher in Palm Beach County. I had the extreme pleasure to mentor Seth Erstein at Omni Middle School in 2011. Mr. Erstein exhibits every quality that would be desirable in someone in this profession. I can truly say I was very lucky to have had him as a student teacher. Though just a beginner at the time, it was evident that Mr. Erstein possessed the necessary traits to be effective. One of his greatest strengths is his ability to take direction and advice; he never shied away when he received pointers or constructive criticism, which is especially important for educators. Seth was always very eager to improve in any way possible, and looked forward to discussions about how to do so. Oftentimes, new teachers are inhibited by their fear, afraid to say the wrong thing, draw attention, or not be well-liked. Seth had an attitude befitting a seasoned teacher. He knew exactly what he wanted to achieve, helping his students succeed, and was willing to do whatever it took to make that happen. One of the things I admire about Seth is that he is not afraid to ask questions. Many times he came to me to ask my advice, or give me his ideas, and he realized that professional collaboration is vital. Mr. Erstein wants to continuously learn and grow. He is knowledgeable regarding his subject matter, but is a voracious reader who works to improve himself constantly. As a student teacher, he utilized newly learned or researched ideas to craft exceptionally creative lessons, perfectly balancing all modes of learning, from visual and auditory to hands on group work. He has tremendous skill as an educator, a love for his students, and a continuous ability to lead, which are attributes educators strive for. He is truly a gem of this profession.
Mr Erstien is still a crucial influence in my life even today, two years after graduation in my third year of college. For a student like me with very conflicting areas of interest, medicine and theatre, Mr Erstien created a place that let me grow the creative side without fear of judgement. Though Mr Erstien is primarily an English teacher, I had him for a theatre class and three years in high school for drama club. He is one of the teachers I came to know the best and continues to support me as I pursue leadership opportunities at my university. Because of Mr Erstien, I know that as I continue in my nursing career there is always time for the arts, it never has to be one or the other, I can be whatever I want to be.
It is my honor and privilege,as Seth's mom, to write these words. Seth is one of the most dedicated, hard working, and caring people I know. As he was growing up, I knew he was special and would, one day, make a difference in the lives of others. Seth was a gifted student. Although he had an excellent education and was a good student, he did not like school until middle school,which is when it changed and he met his mentor, Mr. Bair, his English teacher. Mr. Bair sparked a love of the English language and English Literature that would carry him throughout the years of his education and into his professional career as a teacher. Because of this teacher’s mentorship, Seth has changed the life courses of so many of his students. His positive impact on young lives is incredible. As a teacher, and in his personal life as well, he exudes warmth, intelligence, and compassion for others, and goes out of his way to help those in need. I am so proud to call Seth my son and I hope you will choose him as the recipient of this very prestigious award. Thank you.
I had Mr. Erstein for two years, for drama and my senior English. He also had an after school lgdtq club that I also attended. Mr. Erstein is the most down to earth teacher I know. He took time out of his day to help the kids that needed extra explaining about whatever topic, and took everyone one by one to go over their grade, and explain what to do to raise it. I passed Mr. Erstein everyday in the halls, and he always had a smile on his face! I love Mr. Erstein half to death, and is defientily my most favorite teacher through my whole school career, he totally deserves this recognition!
I was a former student of Mr.Erstein and he was the best teacher I ever had. I was in his theatre 1 and 2 class during freshman and sophomore year and he made me feel so welcomed and loved, I will never forget his crazy nicknames and his wonderful welcoming smile. I was then his student aide for junior year and loved watching him teach his AICE class while I graded some papers, he will always be one of the greatest teachers I had in my lifetime.
I am a former student of Mr. Erstein, and I am absolutely thrilled that he has been nominated for such a prestigious award! He very much deserves this recognition for all that he does for his students. What the description left out is that he also teaches Theatre, which I attended my junior year. Mr. E is such a fun loving, kind, and free spirited person! He always made sure that everyone was happy as soon as they stepped into his classroom. My senior year, I was also his student aide for his AICE General paper class, I just couldn’t leave him! It was here that I would receive the absolute best experience that I had ever had with a teacher. I very much looked forward to seeing Mr. Erstein every day. He always had the best jokes, and the best advice. During that time in my life, things were not always good at home. Some days I would go in to school very emotional, and Mr. Erstein picked up on that very quickly. He was always there for me when I needed someone. He always knew how to make me smile, and during that time, that was something that meant the world to me. I know that it isn’t right to have a personal connection with a teacher, however I truly consider Mr. Erstein a friend. A true friend. He always goes the extra mile for his students, way beyond any other teacher I, as well as many others, have ever seen. Thank you Mr. Erstein for bringing support and laughs into our lives, it means more than you will ever know.
Seth Erstein is without a doubt one of the most professional, elite, and caring teachers that Palm Beach Gardens High School is lucky enough to have. Erstein is a teacher for two reasons, he is passionate about English and he wants to make a difference in the lives of his students. I knew Mr. Erstein first as my Gay-Straight Alliance advisor when I was in the 10th grade. He was one of the few teachers would had “safe space” stickers on his door so that any student of the lgbtq community could feel welcomed. He made us feel prideful in being who we were. Mr. Erstein was also the advisor for the Drama club and the Jewish Student Union, which I got to see as a yearbook photographer who came in to take pictures during their meetings. Later on in my high school career, I was lucky enough to have Erstein as my Senior English teacher. What a treat to have one of my favorite teachers during my senior year of high school. He really made everyone feel special, unique, intelligent, and creative. He was smart in the way he created lessons for us and essays and group projects during class. He conducted the discourse in class where we didn’t feel beneath anyone for the “clique” we were in. Our opinions mattered, and we felt like people and young adults instead of annoying jocks or know-it-all nerds. His class environment was a good example of coexistence and tolerance. Mr. E also wrote me an astounding recommendation letter for the college of my dreams. Now I’m in my junior year at FIU, and I’m so happy. Mr. Erstein deserves this award more than anyone else I know. Please read our comments with care and see that this is your winner. He is a winner in all of our eyes.
I have known Seth for over 8 years. I was fortunate to meet him during our senior year of college in a teaching methods class. We became quick friends after several chats after class commiserating over the joys and challenges of our class and our future teaching endeavor.
Seth is a soft spoken but caring person with a sharp wit. Over the course of my teaching career he has been someone I turn to when I need support over a concern I have in the classroom as well as a sounding board for ideas. When we speak about our classes and how they are going he always speaks so highly of his students and the work they put in. I can tell from his stories that he builds strong relationships with them and they fully trust him as a teacher.
Seth embodies what it means to be a life changer, he is patient and understanding and truly believes that what he does as a teacher has an impact on every student he encounters. I would love nothing more than to see him recognized for the work he does and the person he is.
Mr. Erstein is an amazing educator and person. I struggled with my own identity and finding an education path for myself. Mr. Erstein motivated me to go to college and even pursue a career in Education thanks to his influence. He saved my life by helping me find my way and for that I believe deserves every single award he is eligible for. Great man, great educator, great influence on students.
Seth is a great man and amazing educator. He has made an impact on so many children’s lives!
Seth is my son-in-law and I could not be luckier or happier. I knew what kind of man would be the perfect husband for my daughter but I didn't believe he existed. Obviously I was wrong. Seth has an amazing, caring heart who puts those he cares about above anything else.This is evident is his classroom. Seth's students don't just have an amazing, dedicated teacher but they have a man who is concerned about his students wellbeing outside of school. He treats his students like the young adults they are and not classroom statistics. Seth is most deserving of this recognition and any school would be fortunate to have him on their team.
I've known Seth's parents for 45 yrs. Knowing how family oriented they are, how much they enjoy their children and grandchildren, I am sure Seth is worthy of this award. His family has that closeness that is built on their love for each other interspersed with humor and jokes. If you need help, they are there for you. I believe Seth represents all that is the best of his family and deserves this award.
Seth was my paraprofessional in one of my ESE summer classes. He was a fantastic para for my students and I. He established a great rapport with all students . They enjoyed learning from him.
I met Seth when he was teaching with my brother in law Scott Podradchik at Omni Middle School . Seth has always been kind and understanding when dealing with children.
Seth is my cousin and I have seen hi grow into an amazing man, son, brother, husband and dad!!! He has always been a very compassionate and giving person!! He always has cared about his family and his character is outstanding!!! Once he makes a commitment he follows through... and most importantly has showed respect always to everyone he comes in contact with!! I know all his wonderful traits can only make him an outstanding teacher!!! I am always so proud of him, as we all are!!
I know Seth’s parents long before he was born. Based on his family and his upbringing I confident that Seth is more than deserving of this very special honor.
Seth is an amazing teacher, co-worker, & Friend. He is an inspiration to his students and a role model for other teachers. He teaches not only students, but took the time out of his busy schedule to help me personally with an online class that I taking, becoming a teacher to me as well. Whenever you have a question you know you can go to Seth and if he doesn’t have the answer he’ll find It for you. I’m honored to call him my friend
In most families I believe children look up to their parents. In this family, as Mr. Erstein's mother-in-law, I look up to Seth. His commitment to impart the very best to his students extend beyond the classroom. Seth truly IS that one-of-a-kind teacher because he comes from a place of ulta caring and concern for the whole student; not just how successful each student is in his class. Seth is truly interested in the success of each individual outside of his classroom and beyond the classroom. He does a beautiful job of leading by example. He never takes the easy way out. Furthering his own education is a great example of that. Seth obtained his recent advanced degree under a set of less than ideal circumstances. He prevailed as he does with each hurdle he encounters. Seth is passionate about doing whatever it takes to be and give the most he can to his students. I love his passionate spirit, his determination, and focus. His students are a lucky bunch. I second that emotion as I can say, in all honesty and sincerety, I look up to Seth. In a time when our role models, examples, leaders are few and far between, Seth is a breath of fresh air. Seth Erstein is an outstanding person and I am so lucky to have him in my life.
I had the pleasure of meeting Seth when he was teaching at Omni middle school with my son and my husband. Over the years that I have known him he has proven to be a kind and compassionate man who clearly is dedicated to his profession, his family, and his friends .
Seth is an amazing person. Who from the beginning wanted to be a teacher that made a difference in his students lives. Clearly this is something that he has accomplished year after year.
As Seth's wife, I am able to see, through a different lens, why this nomination is so fitting. The same level of dedication he has to being an amazing husband and father carries over into his role as a teacher. He truly sees the students as individuals and knows what it takes to impact each one in their own, unique way.
He recently received an email from a former student during his student teaching time at a middle school in Boca. The student advised they were now attending an Ivy League school. They went on to remind Seth that they vocalized this goal back in middle school, and he was the only one who believed in him and encouraged him to pursue it. Former students contact Seth from their respective colleges, professions, and on family vacation, to let him know something they learned in his class years ago popped up, and they were either prepared to face the challenge because of their time in Seth's class, or simply that it brought up a fond memory and they wanted to share it.
I had a very impactful teacher when I was in high school. I have always raved about him to Seth, and he has always been curious to find out what made him so magical. I could never put my finger on it, so Seth would ask the opinions of other former students of this teacher, who all also raved, but could not single out what made him so phenomenal. Recently, Seth learned that a coworker also was a student of this fantastic teacher. He asked her what made him so special, and she replied, "He had a way of making everything interesting and engaging, actually making you want to learn. He also cared about all of his students, and that was very evident. Honestly, Seth, I can see you being just like him."
Seth is THAT teacher: the one who makes an impact; the one whose name you will always remember; the one who cares, not because of a score or an evaluation, but because he has the incredible power and responsibility of impacting and changing lives of other human beings, and that is not something he takes lightly.
When you look at someone and think they are doing exactly what they were meant to do, Seth and teaching definitely fall into that category. It is such an honor to be married to a two-time nominee for this incredible award!
Mr. Erstein changed my life. When I walked onto my high school campus in 2012, I had no idea what challenges I would face, how I would overcome there, or who would see me through. Mr. Erstein was there every step of the way, providing support and a safe environment to learn and grow. My freshman year, Mr. Erstein was my theatre teacher, and I was instantly inspired by his honest and engaging approach. He didn’t treat us with kid gloves, and he didn’t sugar coat his expectations. He was always kind and supportive, but not afraid to be blunt when necessary. When I heard he was going to be starting the Drama Club at my school, I had to join. For four years, I walked into Mr. Erstein’s classroom every week for a Drama Club meeting, and that club became my family. We were fresh faces, a little excited and a little scared, huddled together in a big cluster of desks, taking part in a learning community we couldn’t have felt more lucky to be offered. We felt safe.
It was equally comforting when word got around that Mr. Erstein would be sponsoring our high school’s GSA. He took care to ensure that all students had a comfortable and safe space to be themselves at Palm Beach Gardens High Shool, and his leadership and support have formed me into a more confident and more capable man.
Today, I am teaching for an after school Drama program, where I provide safe arts education environments for students across my county. I think back to my days in Drama Club often, because if I hadn’t had them, my life would not be full of the joy given to me by students who just want to feel safe and included, just like we did in Mr. Erstein’s room.
They will face challenges. They will overcome them. Because I was a student of Mr. Erstein, I know I can them through.
