In a world where the classroom often means stress, English teacher Dr. Steffensen connects his students’learning to a language Gen Z can understand; between lessons on complex concepts and challenging exams his students are often found cracking jokes or laughing at his quick come backs.
Dr. Steffensen teaches seniors in College Prep English 4, Honors English 4, and AP Literature and Composition. He is well known by his students for his ability to connect with them, whether it’s using their language or having them perform a quick dance before entering class. By doing this he is welcoming a learning environment full of laughter and where students can be themselves.
Dr. Steffensen’s teaching style is unique because he blends fun while also teaching students. “Students tend to learn better if they’re more engaged. I think especially in the humanities, it is important to kind of show your humanity while you’re teaching, so the students engage with it on a more human level,” said Steffensen.
His students have stated that having a teacher like Dr. Steffensen who is able to have fun while still focusing on learning makes a world of difference.
“AP English Literature can be a very heavy class in itself in material and reading especially at a higher level where learning may be difficult or un-motivating. Dr Steffenson brings a more modern youth-anized teaching style that adjusts to students in a way where they’re entertained and enjoy being in the class. Much of my time spent in that class is filled with laughter and jokes but also deep analysis of literary pieces,” said Victoria Offley ’26
His teaching style takes pressure off the students, especially in an AP classroom where stakes tend to be higher. Knowing you get to “griddy” into the classroom reminds everyone that learning can be challenging but also fun at the same time.
Most of Dr. Steffensen’s students are part of Generation Z, so he uses their slang to help them understand concepts in class.
“My favorite part of teaching Gen Z is that [their] language is complete nonsense, but [they] seem to endlessly enjoy me throwing [their] nonsense back at you, for whatever reason [they] find that very funny,” said Steffensen.
When the classroom becomes more fun and lively, students are not only more likely to participate, but they are also more likely to develop a perspective on being themselves in class
