By: Claire Quigle

Hey Hawkeyes! Happy “Where Do You Work?” Wednesday! Meet Brain DeHoff (BA Elementary Education specializing in reading and language arts ‘14.)

Originally from Worthington, Iowa, DeHoff has now been teaching for seven years. He began his career teaching 3rd grade at Hopewell Elementary in Bettendorf, IA. He has now moved to Cedarville, Ohio where he will teach 2nd grade. 

Dehoff feels the professors at the University of Iowa College of Education taught him how to prioritize both in the classroom and in life, which has helped him to be successful as a teacher.

“Ellie Herman was an instructor who challenged me to either show up and do my best every day or don't show up at all,” says DeHoff. “I absolutely can credit an incredible amount of my classroom success to her teaching and guidance.”

Dehoff enjoys helping students through difficult assignments, and loves teaching because of the impact he is able to impact someone’s life by having a positive relationship with students.

“Teaching is a profession that provides the unique opportunity for each day to be completely different which is an exciting challenge,” says DeHoff. “Building a relationship with students who grow older and wiser but still come to visit your classroom is a benefit of this job not enough people talk about.”

Adjusting to the pandemic has taken a toll on many people, but DeHoff has noticed his students being resilient, using problem solving skills, as well as having empathy for their classmates. He also feels that communities are becoming more aware of the importance of school in the lives of children.

“Our job is to not only teach your children important academic ideas, but to make sure you feel safe, cared for, and that we set you up for how to think and succeed in the world ahead of you,” says DeHoff.

DeHoff is thankful for all the College of Education has given him.

“I am a Hawkeye through and through and cannot thank the University enough for the opportunities that have helped shape my future.”

Want to be the next “Where Do You Work Wednesday” or nominate someone? Message us on Facebook, tag us with #HawkeyeTeachers, or email us at educationatiowa@uiowa.edu.