Jason Mizerek

2020 "Pass the Torch" Scholarship Recipient

“He was able to put things into context like I’ve never seen before and I really haven’t seen since. He was able to make that information relevant to us.”

Mr. Van Bergen was passionate about connection. A charismatic man with a booming voice, he connected emotionally with his subject, becoming visibly moved by stories from history. He helped his students connect events from their lives with things that had happened in the past. Most importantly, he connected with his students, inspiring quiet middle-grader, Jason Mizerek, to discover his own potential as an educator.

Here is Jason's story about Mr. Van Bergen, the teacher who inspired him.

Want to hear the stories of the other nine finalists? Visit our 2020 Scholarship Finalists page.

Thinking of applying to this year's program? Learn more on our Teachers Test Prep "Pass the Torch" Teacher Scholarships page.