Educators are perhaps the greatest population of unsung heroes in Berrien and Cass County This school year, Leader Publications will publish a weekly spotlight featuring teachers throughout the district, giving the community a chance to get to know the hard-working individuals shaping their children’s lives. Throughout the next school year, their answers will be published in the newspaper that serves each school district.

Name: Keith Klann

School: Dowagiac Union High School

Grade(s)/subject(s) taught: 9th-12th Mathematics and Band

Where did you attend college? Lake Michigan College and Western Michigan University

How many years have you been teaching? How many years have you been with your current school? 25 years of teaching, 16th year in Dowagiac

Why did you decide to become a teacher? I love to watch the light bulb go on.

Outside of school, what do you enjoy doing for fun? Camping

What is one thing your students may not know about you? I made my own wedding cake.

Who is your favorite fictional character and why? Scrat, he (like me) gets into a little trouble on occasion.

When you were a student in the grade you teach, what were your favorite hobbies?

Model railroading, playing the saxophone.

How would your co-workers describe your teaching style and personality? Wild and crazy.

Who is your biggest role model and why? Jesus, because he loves everyone!

How has education changed in the last 10 years? Everyone, teachers and students, are expected to do so much more now.

What is your best advice to parents to help their child continue growing academically?

Get involved with what your students are doing and keep them focused.

If my students learn one thing this year, I hope it is…Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you are correct.