Few classrooms feel like a second home, but at Fauquier High School (FHS), physics teacher Don Eckenrode has done just that. Eckenrode’s classroom is equal parts welcoming, curious and humorous; turning a challenging subject into a safe space for education.

Eckenrode teaches physics at a multitude of levels, Physics, AP Physics I and AP Physics II and although he doesn't see himself as doing anything extraordinary, his students disagree. “I really enjoy Mr Eckenrodes' class because he takes the time to answer everyone’s questions while making it fun and interesting,” stated one of Eckenrode’s students, junior George Adamec, “In my opinion, very few teachers are able to accomplish this,” he continued.

Born in Los Angeles, Calif., and raised in Wheaton, Md., Eckenrode was raised coast-to-coast.

His path to teaching physics at FHS wasn’t planned, however, starting with studying physics at the University of Mary Washington, he had more than enough credentials to do so. “This school needed a physics teacher and I just happened to live nearby,” stated Eckenrode. Factoring in his credentials and larger than life personality, he was the perfect fit for the job. Just that simple twist of fate turned into something so much more.

Summing up his teaching philosophy, “It’s all about the students,” Eckenrode displays a humble student-oriented mindset. As well as this, Eckenrode prefers to keep his classes calm so as to ensure that all of his students understand the material presented to them. “I prefer to teach at my students pace as opposed to mine, as these are lessons I know off the top of my head.”

In an era when teachers are often spread thin with long hours and stressful students, Eckenrode's bubbly personality stands out. “This school is special to me because of the students that inhabit it,” Eckenrode stated. That sentiment is felt by every student who enters his room. “He makes physics really fun, but more importantly he makes us feel welcome,” said Adamec. For Eckenrode, it doesn't take a spotlight for him to feel content. Just the smile on his students' faces is enough to brighten his day.