Thursday, Jan 18, 2024
Robert Schulte ’04 was recognized for educating students about the American Revolution
by Adam Grybowski
Robert Schulte ’04, an 8th grade social studies teacher at Reynolds Middle School in Hamilton Township, New Jersey, was named the recipient of the 2023 Dr. Tom and Betty Lawrence History Teacher of the Year Award from the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution.
A published historian who also participates in annual reenactments of Washington's Crossing and local battles at Trenton and Princeton, New Jersey, Schulte excels at connecting students to the authentic experiences and revolutionary ideas of our founding history.
“These kids have to see that what we’re studying is relevant,” he says. “Our curriculum covers history and civics, allowing students to take a deep dive into the Constitution and how the government was created and how it applies today. The ideas of the Revolution were not just for people 250 years ago. They set a path forward for us today.”
Schulte double-majored in history and secondary education at Rider University before embarking on a career in education that has now spanned 18 years and earned him multiple awards.
From advising Harvard University's Declaration of Independence Resource Project to writing curriculum for the Library of Congress, Schulte has amassed vast experience in creating engaging lessons for students of all ages. In 2019, he was selected to receive a James Madison Fellowship, which provided $24,000 to further his education. He enrolled in Pace University's graduate program in American history and earned a master's degree in 2021.
The ideas of the Revolution were not just for people 250 years ago. They set a path forward for us today.”
Schulte’s published lesson plans have received state awards and have been presented around the nation. One of them uses the real letters of a colonial soldier who ultimately dies in battle to help students understand the motives and sacrifices of those who fought for independence.
“I’ve been able to do special collections research and pull out letters that not every teacher might have access to,” he says. “There are students who cry when they read them. It brings the real human cost of war home to them.”
His passion for the American Revolution surged while working as a park guide for the National Park Service from 2010 until 2022 during the summer and other breaks from teaching. During that time, he provided historical interpretation and educational programming at Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia.
“What a fascinating experience, to have the keys to Independence Hall and spend time teaching in the place where so much happened,” he says. “I really enjoyed being able to share those lessons with thousands of people every day.”
Schulte became eligible for the national teaching award after previously winning the 2022 Reverend John Witherspoon American History Teacher of the Year Grant from the New Jersey Society of the Sons of the American Revolution. Based in Louisville, Kentucky, the national nonpartisan organization is dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving American history and promoting education for future generations.