The School District of Washington is excited to take part in the “STL Teacher Proud” campaign, put on by Education Plus, as an effort to highlight the amazing teachers who choose to serve the St. Louis community and inspire others to join the noble profession of teaching. On the second Tuesday of each month, we’ll highlight a SDOW teacher who chooses to make a difference every day.
Teacher Proud Tuesday – Jeff Frankenberg, Building Construction Teacher, Four Rivers Career Center
Jeff Frankenberg has been with the School District of Washington for five years as a building constructor teacher at Four Rivers Career Center. Prior to his time at FRCC, he worked in construction for over 20 years.
Frankenberg and Rob York are the Building Construction instructors at FRCC.
“I chose to go into teaching building construction because I saw a need for a new work force with the skills and values needed in the industry. I wanted to pass on the knowledge I have to the future builders and construction workers,” Frankenberg said. “I was a product of the Four Rivers Building Trades program and graduated from Four Rivers. I replaced my instructor, who was Garry Gerhart. When he was retiring, he asked me if I would consider applying for the job, and I eventually did.
“I like the people who I work with here at the Career Center. We have an excellent staff. I enjoy working with the students and educating them on the craft and the different aspects of building construction. No day is the same. Every day is different.”
“Jeff is one of the best teachers I have ever been around. He cares a lot about his students, and it shows,” said Four Rivers Career Center Director Philip King. “There are many days I have noticed him working late to prepare labs, contacting parents, or contacting local businesses. He has set up fun and engaging field trips for his students. He regularly brings in guest speakers to demonstrate for the students. Jeff works hard to make every student successful. He is solution oriented.”
