Take a look at how Dr. Ben Weber, our new vice principal, and his love for learning became part of our Neumann family this year.
What did you study in college and why did you choose it?
Dr. Weber knew from the very beginning that he wanted to be an educator. Since his senior year of high school, he was sure he wanted to be a history teacher, which is exactly what he studied. His career in education began at the Franciscan University of Steubenville, where he majored in history and education.
What made you want to pursue your doctoral degree?
Dr. Weber loves to learn! He received his Masters degree, but his love for learning pushed him to take more classes and receive his doctorate.
Why did you choose to come to Neumann?
Faith has always been important to Dr. Weber. By working at St. John Neumann, he is able to live his faith throughout his daily life.
Have you taught in schools before? What did you do before you came to Neumann?
Dr. Weber has been educating for 15 years. He began teaching in a juvenile correctional facility. Later, after moving to Collier County, he taught and became a school administrator for both Immokalee High School and North Naples Middle School.
What is your job specifically at SJN?
As a school administrator, Dr. Weber does a little bit of everything. While Dr. Noonan works mostly with students, Dr. Weber works a lot with curriculum, the teaching staff, and professional development.
What inspired you to become a teacher?
Dr. Weber shares a quote from Madeleine Delbrel that just about sums up why he has such a great love for teaching: “Working on the world will not make the world better. The world will only get better when people get better.” Like Delbrel, who was known for her social work in France, Dr. Weber knows he’s called to work with people and help them be better.
Did you have a specific teacher when you were younger that inspired you?
Dr. Weber felt inspired by his teachers and football coaches. When he was a senior in high school, he wanted to be like some of his male teachers and coach football alongside teaching.
We welcome Dr. Weber to Neumann, and hope he has a successful year as a new addition to our Neumann community.
