Oakdale has welcomed many new teachers this year, with Chad Steiner being one. He is a part of the special education staff. Steiner has been teaching for 11 years, and has worked for FCPS for the past 13.
Steiner obtained his undergraduate degree in Sociology/Communication from Juniata College. He then transferred to McDaniel College for his masters in Exercise Science & Kinesiology. He later went back to school at Liberty University for his masters in Special Education.
“It was a tough gig to break into, with very little money and stability. I went back to my old high school, Frederick High, where my dad was teaching and coaching, and started substitute teaching and coaching football,” Steiner shares. “Teaching and coaching came naturally to me so I went back to school to get my teaching certificate.”
Steiner started his coaching career at Frederick High School (FHS) and Tuscarora High School (THS) before coming to Oakdale. He needed a fresh start and decided Oakdale was his chance. Steiner has been coaching at OHS for three years and enjoys the environment here. “When a special education position opened last spring, I jumped at the chance to teach in the same building where I coach,” he states.
Steiner works closely in classes with students who may need extra help. He currently co-teaches English 11 with Kathleen Twigg and Algebra 1B with Alvin Matute. Steiner wants to see his students succeed and loves to watch them grow.
“Coach Steiner helps by working one on one with students who may have been absent or who may need extra guidance,” Twigg comments, “He has a very positive and encouraging relationship with students.”
“It’s very welcoming and overall a great place to work. The students as a whole are fun and personable and the staff have been amazing to work with so far,” he describes.
“Between coaching and teaching, he has built powerful relationships with students and staff that allow him to be a positive influence both inside and outside the classroom,” Twigg adds. “He has been a wonderful addition and I am incredibly grateful to have him as a co-teacher.”
Coach Steiner has made great strides towards Oakdale’s success, not only in athletics but now in the classroom as well. He is a valuable member of OHS’s staff and is a welcome addition to Oakdale as a whole. Welcome to Oakdale, Coach Steiner!
