around DELBARTON
Why I Teach By John Thompson History Department Chairman Mr. John Thompson has taught and coached at Delbarton for 31 years. His legendary AP European History course prepares underclassmen for college-level coursework and he takes a similar approach to his roles as Head Coach of the varsity tennis team and Assistant Coach of the soccer team.
A
s a shy high school student, I never imagined I would one day spend my life speaking in front of classes, teams, and other faculty members.
An annual tradition in Thompson’s AP European History class is a reenactment of the Trial of Louis XVI, costumes, wigs and all. Occasionally, when the defense team is particularly effective, Louis escapes with his head.
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DELBARTON TODAY
As a child, I loved to read about history and learn about the life and times of my family. I was fascinated by my father’s experiences as a marine in the Pacific during World War II, and my grandfather’s life as a submarine commander during two World Wars, and I was fascinated by the American Civil War and World War II. Unsure of what I wanted to do, I knew if I could find a career that combined my passion for history and sports, I would be happy for life. After college, intending to earn a PHD in history and having completed my Master’s Degree, four more years of graduate work did not appeal to me. Instead, I decided to try teaching.
