Kristin Sheradin: Bill Schara is a rock star in the Upper School who mastered how to make learning both meaningful and fun. Students idolized him because of his “magic” in the classroom, and here are two of the reasons why:
Being Passionate! Bill cared deeply about what he taught, and this made the students care, too. Through questioning, students actually felt the importance of what he was teaching — whether it was the injustices of capitalism or the Cold War.
Being Provocative! Using a technique, I fondly named “The Schara Hook,” Bill would open a lesson, such as one on Marxism, with a provocative question like, “How many of you know how to properly skin a squirrel?” (It involves starting from the back end, by the way.)
He loved throwing out a line (to keep the fishing metaphor going) and seeking the angle that would capture teens’ minds. He’d lure students into pretty much any topic — and they’d become “hooked” and want to know more.
His passion in the classroom was always inspiring, and his impact on so many students will be carried with them no matter what their futures hold.
Kim McDowell: “A lifelong teacher, Bill has taught first grade all the way through college. He began at Harley in Middle School in 1997 before migrating to Upper School. Bill insists that "He couldn't have asked for a better job," citing his appreciation for Harley's academic freedom and its people. Although he has taught history and social studies courses, ranging from World Revolutions to Food & Society, US Government to Philosophy & Ethics, Bill's favorite course has been "whatever kids are engaged in."
He’s looking forward to a retirement that feels as if "every day is Saturday” and plans to spend plenty of time fishing, camping, hiking, traveling, and visiting his grandchildren. As Bill transitions from inspiring teacher to student of nature, I wish him plenty of dry campsites, memorable vistas, and hungry fish.
He’s looking forward to a retirement that feels as if "every day is Saturday” and plans to spend plenty of time fishing, camping, hiking, traveling, and visiting his grandchildren. As Bill transitions from inspiring teacher to student of nature, I wish him plenty of dry campsites, memorable vistas, and hungry fish.”
Students may create independent studies with supervising teachers throughout their Upper School experience or, during Grade 12, they can design Capstone projects—intensive collaborations with Harley faculty and off-campus mentors—involving rigorous academic study and culminating in public presentations. 