David Hertzinger is serving as the Interim Assistant Principal for the Upper School, having previously served as the Grade 9 Dean and Advisor. David has been teaching history at Carolina Day School since 2010 and came into teaching later in life. Prior to being a teacher, David coached gymnastic competitive teams and was also a nuclear, biological, and chemical warfare specialist for the US Army and the Indiana Army National Guard, where he served for two years active duty and four in the guard. David also worked for Target Corporation for 10 years, as a Logistics executive for the southeast region. David was awarded the Senior Prize for 2011-2012 and the Dr. W. Leon Elliston Upper School Faculty Professional Development Award for 2012-2013.

Get to know David Hertzinger:
 
In what ways can you teach/engage children at CDS that you couldn't at other schools? “At CDS we are able to get to know the students at a more personal level. Students see us as more than simply classroom teachers. We are mentors, confidants, and at times role models. We are here to help the students become more than just academically successful, we are here to help them become well rounded individuals.”
 
What do you like most about your job at CDS? “I love that fact that everyday I get the opportunity to work with my colleagues and students who inspire me to continue to grow in order to be the best teacher that I can be.”  
 
In your opinion, how does the CDS community inspire students to be courageous and curious, wonder about things that they don’t understand, try new things, and develop individual passions? “Our Students feel safe to ask questions and explore the material. At CDS we encourage them to question the world around them, while being respectful to those with whom they disagree.”  
 
How would you describe your classroom? “My classroom is a place where all are welcomed and where all feel free to share their opinion and beliefs. My classroom is also a place where students feel comfortable to make mistakes and ask questions.”
 
What books and authors inspire you? “I cannot limit it to one or a handful of authors. As a history teacher I find inspiration in the words of those who came before me. What I find most important is allowing an individual from the time period we are studying to share their voice with my students.  Whether it is Plato, Socrates, Locke or Rousseau listening to them in the context of the historical time period in which they lived is where I gain my inspiration.”
 
What is your favorite quote about education, mentorship, children, and/or learning? “[Kids] don't remember what you try to teach them. They remember what you are.” ― Jim Henson, It's Not Easy Being Green: And Other Things to Consider
 
How would you describe yourself and/or your approach to your job in 10 words or less?  “Although it took some time, I have found my calling!”
 
Which classroom projects/events are you known for? “I am known for what I call our tangents in class. Those are the times when our discussions go off topic, but they are often the times that the students make the connections between the history we are studying and the events of our modern world.  These are the moments when they understand why it is important to study history.”
 
What personal passion brings balance to your life? “Spending time with my wife and kids. This always reminds me of what is important in this life, family.”
 
How is CDS different from what you experienced as a child in school? “I see the importance of students having teachers in their lives that are good role models and value them as people. At CDS students are able to form meaningful relationships with teachers, who value their company and find joy in their accomplishments. There are no complacent teachers at CDS. There are no teachers simply collecting paychecks and counting down the days until retirement. We are here because we love what we do and find meaning and purpose in teaching our students.”