by Tara Huber, English and Journalism Teacher, Neshaminy High School

Lately, it appears that everyone in the Neshaminy community is grasping for someone to label as their hero. I am very particular when choosing who in my life deserves such a weighty honor.

This past spring, my long-time colleague at Neshaminy High School and dear friend Dennis Howie was diagnosed with a rare cancer. His strength and fortitude throughout this epic fight for his life has been nothing short of awe-inspiring. Despite the increasing physical challenges he faces, he has perservered in the classroom by continuing to be a role model to both the students and teachers.

To be frank, Dennis Howie is my hero. His concern and involvement with students is unparalleled. As a teacher of Advanced Placement English, he challenges the students in the classroom with creative and innovative techniques to achieve at their highest levels.

Dennis forms strong bonds with his students, which turn into lasting friendships well beyond their college years. His students are intensely loyal to him as evident when one outstanding young lady organized a car wash and bake sale to support Dennis and his fight against cancer.

Dennis feels strongly that veteran teachers should be in the trenches challenging the basic level English students. Differentiated instruction is paramount to his success with the students who find learning so difficult.

He strives to make all learning experiences relevant to real-life situations while he reaches out to the struggling students, helping them to feel valued and engaged in learning. In a classroom setting with some of the toughest students in the school, he has always fostered a bully-free and violence-free environment allowing all students to feel comfortable.

Dennis’ dedication goes well beyond the classroom as he has dedicated the better part of his career to the Student Assistance Program. He is involved in interventions with students, parents, administrators, social workers and outside agencies to assure the student receives the proper care for his or her personal crisis. On a more intimate level, Dennis organizes and leads support groups to help the students cope with their issues in a comfortable and safe setting.

Co-curricular activities have always been Dennis’ passion as he continually seeks ways to connect students to the school community. As the advisor for the Literary Magazine, he created a forum for students to have a creative expression through art and writing. He is a source of inspiration as well as tough critiques as he challenges the students to find their voice through art and writing.

As the advisor for Neshaminy’s Gay-Straight alliance, he promotes tolerance and creates a safe environment for students to be comfortable to be themselves. He assists the students in creating awareness campaigns which promotes acceptance and peace among students from all walks of life.

I have had the incredible opportunity to co-teach English with Dennis at a drug rehabilitation center in Bucks County. Working side-by-side with Dennis as we develop meaningful and inspirational lessons to help students learn while overcoming their addictions has been a highlight of my teaching career. 

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