In his practically 20 years with the school district, Cuyahoga Heights Middle School (CHMS)/High School (CHHS) Art Teacher John Shafer has developed a reputation. “He is a constant source of inspiration,” said Miles Paterson, who nominated Shafer for this month’s honors. He was singled out for his contagious enthusiasm and his genuine, caring attitude toward both students and staff. "John's worst moods are often more energetic and enthusiastic than the best moods of others,” noted Paterson. “I am honored to work with John.”
It’s no wonder others see Shafter in this light. “Something as simple as a smile and friendly greeting can go a long way in a child’s day,” says Shafer whose enthusiasm and caring demeanor is evident on a daily basis. “I love working with the kids and trying to help them grow and realize their full potential in and out of the classroom,” he noted.
Shafer joined the district in 2003 from Willoughby Eastlake City Schools where he taught art to middle school students for eight years. He is a graduate of Baldwin Wallace (then) College where he majored in Art and Education. He earned his Master’s Degree in Curriculum and instruction from Ashland University. At CHMS, Shafer teaches seventh grade Art. At CHHS, he teaches Art Foundations, Art I, Drawing and Painting; and Photography I and II. He is also a coach for high school football and track and field.
In his spare time, Shafer, who confesses to playing the drums in a metal band while in college, enjoys spending time with his family as well as listening to music, watching movies, working in his flower garden in the late spring and summer, and fishing and hunting. He and his wife, Deborah, a first-grade teacher at North Olmsted City Schools, have been married for 26 years and have three sons. The Shafer’s oldest son, Max, is a 2018 CHHS graduate who is currently studying communications and film at Baldwin Wallace University. Second son, Sam, is a 2020 CHHS graduate and is studying Education at Concordia University. The couple’s youngest son, Zach, is a seventh grader at CHMS.
“I love my family more than anything and am blessed to have had them grow up and be a part of such an amazing school and community.” It can easily be said that the Cuyahoga Heights Schools and community feel the same about Shafer.
The Cuyahoga Heights Board of Education will recognize Shafer at the March 23rd meeting.