Mirror Q&A: Brian Hoffman

Mirror: Where are you from?

Hoffman: I grew up in Norwood, Massachusetts.

M: Where did you go to college?

H: I went to college as an undergraduate at George Mason University and to Bridgewater State college for my master's degree in secondary education.

M: How long have you been teaching for?

H: I am in my 21st year of teaching. I taught for 17 years in Brockton, and the last four years have been here in Dedham.

M: What classes do you teach?

H: I currently teach US History for grade 10 at all levels. In Brockton, I was always a middle school social studies teacher that taught subjects like ancient history, so it’s a fun challenge to teach US history for the first time.  

M: What inspired you to become a teacher?

H: I started to work with kids at summer camps, and it just sort of clicked.

M: What’s your favorite thing about teaching?

H: I like the unpredictability of any given day, and the unexpected surprises I get from kids without them realizing. I really enjoy being able to learn about different cultures, languages, and backgrounds while in the classroom.

M: What was your favorite subject in high school and why?

H: History. I’ve always been a history geek, and in high school I really enjoyed the stories and visuals that went along with that.

M: Do you have any pet peeves in the classroom?

H: Phones. I try to get kids to listen to the other perspectives in the room, and it drives me nuts that kids don't always get that.

M: What’s a fun fact about yourself?

H: I love classical music and learned how to fish during the pandemic.

M: What do you like to do in your free time?

H: In my free time, I enjoy working outside my home- whether that be gardening, planting, or some other activity. I like to fix things and learn things. 

M: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?

H: Don't be afraid to ask for help. I see it as a sign of strength.

M: What kind of music do you like to listen to?

H:  It depends on the time of day and mood- classical, tons of sport radio, 90s rock, irish music. 

M: What's your favorite book?

H: Trinity By Leon Uris.

M: What’s your favorite color?

H: Plaid.

M: Is there anything that’s surprised you about Dedham high?

Though I’ve coached this age group before, it’s a whole new world to teach. There’s a new level of maturity to understand.