Cultivating Minds One Heart at a Time

A longtime Pequannock teacher reflects on the joys and challenges of being a local educator.

BY DANA REGAN

Who

or what inspired you to become a teacher?

For a while, I went to Catholic school, where I felt the academic focus was not on math. Once I began public school, I felt weak in math and had no confidence. But I had one math teacher who never made me feel like I wasn’t good at math. He encouraged me and told me that I would get it. This math teacher made me feel like I could teach and be with people in this environment in a positive way. He made me think that I could make a difference.

Mr. Crown, Thank you for teaching us so well in a way I’ve never been taught before. It doesn’t even feel like I’m learning but I have so much. You are so reassuring and kind and you try your best to understand us students. You really are so smart in everything you do, even though you are crazy and weird most of the time. I’ve never met anyone like you but I’m beyond happy I have!! Have a merry Christmas, Mr. Crown, and a happy New Year!

The practice of teaching is calculated, yet at the same time full of zeal, affection and, occasionally, concern. Few know this as well as John Crown, a teacher and coach who gave his all to the community of Pequannock for 17 years.

Retiring in 2017 was not the end of Crown’s career because he continues to enlighten and inform students of Pequannock Township as a substitute teacher, answering the call of duty when needed.

Recruited from Belleville High School in 2000, Crown embarked on a small-town adventure that would satisfy his soul and make a permanent mark on the hearts and minds of countless teens he taught every day in the classroom, in the halls, on the court and on the field.

Can you describe your teaching career in three words?

Trust, discipline and compassion.

What were you known for as a teacher, and how do you want students to remember you?

I want everyone to remember how much I love these kids! I see something in each and every student. I seek to understand what they are good at. I look at all of them as individuals and connect with them, understanding what they are doing right now.

What are some town traditions you value as a Pequannock teacher?

I love traditions behind athletics in this town. I enjoy going to games to support the students and their parents. I also absolutely love it when the high school choir comes down to the middle school at Christmastime and sings carols. I love seeing my former students—it is a very special time for me. This community has given me so much; I feel indebted.

What are some challenges present in classrooms today?

Cell phones! Our students’ ability to resist distracting themselves. I know students come to school with baggage. I would always tell them, “Whatever you’re coming in with, leave it at the door or give it to me; I have big shoulders.” If we can get students willing to learn, we can move mountains.

Dana Regan is a happy wife and proud mother of four who moved to this town in 2013. She recently published her first children’s book, “Amarylli’s Bunny: Where is She Now?”