Pat Herzog started teaching at St. Ambrose in 2000. He has a B.A. in Social Studies, with a minor in Education, from Hamline University. Mr. Herzog also has a Master of Curriculum and Instruction, with an emphasis in Technology, from St. Mary’s University, Winona. His past experience includes various teaching positions, working in food service and coaching and refereeing youth soccer. As a Social Studies and Religion teacher, Mr. Herzog’s goal is to not only teach about the Old Testament and ancient civilizations but to personalize and identify the lessons from the past. He wants to help students connect the curriculum to their lives so they can understand the role Catholicism has played in our society and apply this knowledge as they grow their faith and build their citizenship.
Mr. Herzog strives to create a “comfortably uncomfortable” environment in the classroom. By creating a safe learning environment he hopes students will be more willing to step out of their comfort zone so greater learning can take place. Early on, Mr. Herzog found he had a calling to be a teacher because he loves to share his knowledge with others and help them learn. Mr. Herzog loves teaching at St. Ambrose. He finds the students are energetic, caring and respectful; the parents are supportive and involved; the staff is friendly, wise and dedicated and there are opportunities to grow. In his free time Mr. Herzog enjoys reading just about everything, traveling, keeping up with current technology and volunteering.
“Teaching 6th grade has taught me that I am not the only teacher in the room! Everyday I learn about social studies, religion and life from my students. They love to share when given the opportunity. Also, parents should know that 6th graders learn, and know, more than they are willing to admit!” – Pat Herzog