The typical history classroom involves boring lectures, dreary powerpoints and a monotone voice.  When it comes to our own US history teacher Brian Heintz, however, this is definitely not the case.

At the end of last year, Heintz was named the 2012 Virginia History Teacher of the Year through the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History.  His prize included $1,000 which he donated to a scholarship fund at his alma mater.  In addition, WS received a primary source archive in his honor.  Heintz has been teaching at WS for six years and has created quite a name for himself.

Specialty games have become a trademark of Heintz’s teaching style.  Classes frequently participate in review games that are meant not only for test preparation, but also for enjoyment.  Some of these classics are Academic Dodgeball, Taboo and APUSH-jeopardy.

“My favorite games are the ones that I have to make up on the spot.  Those are the best,” said Heintz.

Not every day can be fun and games.  Heintz effectively combines an enjoyable class atmosphere with intense preparation for AP exams and SOL tests.  Each year, he produces some of the highest pass rates for exams.

Experience has also played a large role in Heintz’s success.

“I have, in my career, basically taught every social studies class…but AP US History and US Virginia History have become my specialty,” said Heintz.

Teaching has not always been Heintz’s career goal.

“I was originally going to be a lawyer, but my junior year I interned at a law office and was horrified by it,” said Heintz.

Luckily for WS, Heintz changed his career plans and became a Social Studies teacher.

“My high school history teacher offered to let me student teach, and after watching her for one class period, she turned it over to me,” said Heintz.

Teaching seemed almost natural.  In his element at the front of the class, Heintz took over the reigns and ran the class successfully.  He has been doing it ever since.

In any profession, there are obvious ups and downs.  Managing a constantly changing classroom environment comes only with practice and skill.

“It is a very bipolar job. Somedays things go well and some days it is horrific. The hardest part is managing that. And the air-conditioner,” said Heintz.

Fortunately for future US history students, Heintz and his whimsical classroom games are here to stay.  Although he has received opportunities elsewhere, he is adamant about keeping his roots here at WS.

“I am planning on staying here at WS for a while. It will be nice to finally see this joint be remade,” said Heintz.