Mr. Gallagher graduated from State University College at Buffalo in Buffalo, New York where he earned his Bachelors of Science degree in Industrial Arts. He received his Masters degree in Vocational Education from Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff. Chuck has been teaching for 24 years, currently as a Construction and Drafting teacher at Santa Rita High School in Tucson where, among other activities, he and his students build homes for Habitat for Humanity.

• “Many teachers have a ‘lightbulb’ moment in their lives when they suddenly decide, ‘I’m going to be a teacher.’ For me, it was more like a dimmer switch being slowly turned up. I didn’t start my professional career with the intention of becoming a teacher, but after nearly a decade in the construction industry, I saw the potential in young minds to change the world, and I felt called to become a part of that process. I found myself looking back to the teachers that influenced me as a student, and this reflection led me down the path of my destiny.”

• “When teachers really love what they are doing, students share their enthusiasm. Showing students the relevance of their lessons in the classroom gives them an idea of the kind of real world they will face after graduation. There are no better examples of this than in Career and Technical Education, where every lesson is directly linked to the world of work. When classrooms are run like businesses, students learn the work habits, skills and ethics that will be expected of them by their future employers.”

• “There is a nationwide teacher shortage – and there is a real shortage of good teachers. Many good teachers are leaving the profession because of the lack of support they receive when trying to make changes and promote higher standards. When teachers dress professionally, are punctual, arrive prepared, and keep students engaged the whole class period, they are modeling good habits and behaviors for their students. It is our job to prepare our students for the future. When we allow the standards to be lowered in the name of convenience, we lose integrity as professionals. Our students deserve better.”

• A former student of Mr. Gallagher says, “With all that Mr. Gallagher does for the school and other organizations around the country he is always very busy, yet he always finds time for his students when they need his help. If I were still in high school I would take Mr. Gallagher’s class again in a heartbeat. Not only does Mr. Gallagher teach his students carpentry or drafting, he teaches pride in your work, loyalty, respect and other important life lessons. I can honestly say that all of those who take the time to talk to Mr. Gallagher will leave better off than when they come in.”