Teacher Feature: Andrew Oberlies

By Barbara P. Jacoby

Sequoyah HS math teacher Andrew Oberlies chose an education career to make a positive impact on the lives of young people.

“Deciding to become an educator was more than just choosing a profession, but rather a deliberate decision to answer a call to being an educator, mentor, encourager, and a lifelong learner myself,” said Oberlies, a 17-year educator and his school’s 2022 Teacher of the Year and a CCSD Teacher of the Year finalist. “I have always enjoyed working with youth and wanted to help students succeed both inside and outside the classroom. I strive to help others learn and accomplish their goals.”

Oberlies believes math “unlocks a world of wonder in the mundane” and chose to teach it because of the students he knew who struggled with understanding the subject.

“It is often taught or seen as numbers, equations, and algorithms. I desire for students to see math as being about understanding. Learning and applying mathematics should teach students crucial ways of thinking and problem solving. Students have great potential to learn but sometimes need encouragement believing in their potential.”

He has taught all levels of math, and currently teaches AP (Advanced Placement) and honors courses, serves as Sequoyah’s AP department head, helps organize the credit recovery program for struggling students, and sponsors the math club and math honor society. Outside of school, Oberlies continues his service to youth through teaching Sunday school, youth group, and vacation Bible school programs, coaching soccer, and serving as a foster family.

“I believe keeping students excited about learning begins with the teacher’s attitude. Teachers must enjoy and be excited about teaching. In all my years as a teacher, I don’t remember not wanting to go to work. This is not to say some days have not been challenging, but I truly enjoy teaching,” Oberlies said. “Students will be more excited to learn if they know where they will apply what they are learning. I try to make connections to real life and use the mathematics they are learning in application problems. I spend a lot of time getting to know the interests of my students and their desires for future careers. I research what mathematics they will need for future careers. Showing students where they, or their peers, will use what they are learning gives importance to what they are learning.”

What can parents do to help their child be as successful as possible at school?

“Open communication between teachers, parents, and students is essential. Parental monitoring of a child’s progress is imperative,” Oberlies said. “Supporting homework expectations and attendance is essential because it reinforces and extends classroom learning while helping students practice important skills. Furthermore, assist teachers by keeping them informed about situations that may be going on that might impact your child’s education. Daily conversations between parent and child about school go a long way and may assist in proactively preventing academic stressors. Teamwork between teachers and parents is the key to successful education.”