January’s WWEA Educator Spotlight

The Wheaton Warrenville Education Association (WWEA) would like to introduce Mr. Joseph Drover, a fifth-year Social Studies educator in District 200. Mr. Drover’s career with District 200 began at Monroe Middle School where he taught 6th and 8th grade Social Studies for two years. He is currently in his second year of teaching at Wheaton North High School where he teaches World Civilizations, Government, and Military History to 9th through 12th grade students. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in History and the Social Sciences from Illinois State University and he’s wrapping up his Master's degree in Principal Preparation with Concordia University.

Mr. Drover has a history of valuing education. While growing up, he encountered many educators and coaches that had a great influence on him and led him to the field education. He was inspired by his middle and high school Physical Education teachers who also served as his football and baseball coaches. He stated that they “left a lasting impact and led me to education.” His Illinois State University educators reaffirmed his decision to become an educator, as their passion and enthusiasm for teaching and learning had a significant impact. Mr. Drover also believes his family affected his decision because they always stressed the importance of a solid education and putting your best effort into whatever it is that you do.

Mr. Drover believes that academics are a top priority in D200 schools, and he also feels that students benefit greatly from extracurricular activities. He spends a significant amount of time outside of the school day supporting student athletes. He has coached Wheaton North football for four years, three as varsity running back coach and one as freshman running back and head B team coach. He is in his second year of coaching freshman softball and sponsoring the WNHS Fishing Team. He also returns to Monroe Middle School to coach wrestling for his fourth season. Mr. Drover stated that “Being a teacher is a chance to make a difference. Teachers and coaches spend a great deal of time with the students and athletes they interact with and they are great opportunities to help guide students and serve as a positive role model during that time.”

In 2015, Mr. Drover received a scholarship from Cantigny to travel to France to tour the D-Day beaches. He attended the DuPage County Social Studies Convention for the Spring Institute and heard about the opportunity from Cantigny speaker, Paul Herbert, and as a history major he applied. A few weeks later he found out that he had received the scholarship and would be spending two weeks touring the beaches of Normandy. Mr. Drover reflected on the experience by stating, “It was incredible to see the beaches that I teach about every year first hand and has created a new interest in travel.” He believes that everyday in the field of education is reason for celebration, because you never know when or how you may impact someone's life. He appreciates when his students or athletes visit him after graduation and tell him about their personal successes and what an impact he had on them because it provides him with a great sense of accomplishment.

When asked about his time in D200, Mr. Drover stated, “CUSD 200 is a great organization with a supportive community, passionate staff members, and great students.” The WWEA is proud to have Mr. Joseph Drover representing the education profession in and outside of the classroom. He is a dedicated and professional educator who truly appreciates his students and academia. Thank you, Mr. Drover, for all you do to inspire excellence in our students.