Do you want to know one of the most interesting and eccentric teachers at Tuscarora High School? Well, meet the amazing Mr. Heller. Mr. Jeffrey Heller was born and raised in Scranton, PA, graduating from Scranton Preparatory High School and continuing his life to further education that led him to where he is today. Mr. Heller attended Boston University, obtaining a B.A. in philosophy and psychology, later achieving his M.A. in teaching from the Marywood University of PA. He demonstrated his knowledge in many areas and it led him to the man he is today. During his years at Boston Uni, he worked as an english administrator, or secretary in that department. Mr. Heller has affected the lives of many, providing guidance for those who need it and creating a space that is welcoming and comfortable.
Originally, he did not want to pursue the idea of teaching, but his love for books led him to wanting to go back to school to educate in English. Later after graduating with his masters, he went to his first job as a teacher, which was Thomas Johnson High School for three years He then moved to Frederick High School for six years as a math teacher. Finally, he transferred to Tuscarora High School, where he continued to teach as a math teacher and he is now educating students on Algebra one and Pre-calculus with Trigonometry. This is his fifth year teaching at THS, meaning this is his 14th year of teaching overall.
When interviewed one Sept. 17th, 2025, he was asked why he left being an English teacher. He stated “I liked teaching creative writing, but nonfiction was not a big interest.” With his love for reading, he favors sci/fi and fiction novels more than anything. He is a nerd when it comes to hosting his chess and his Dungeons and Dragons club. Most importantly to him is he is a proud father of two little girls and a loving husband to his wife.
He takes his job seriously when it comes to teaching his students and ensuring that they understand the subjects he is teaching. This sentiment, along with making his classroom a safe space that welcomes all students.This is what Mr. Heller prides himself on as a teacher, being approachable, creating a safe space and just being more than just a math teacher to his students. He emphasizes being a human, saying “My belief is that the most important thing we can do is treat everyone as human beings. So many people forget that, and I think that’s the primary driver of friction in the world.”
He has a lot of emphasis on this, that we should all treat each other like humans. He teaches and speaks to students with respect and dignity, not like they are children, but like they are people. His students express how comfortable they are with him, and he loves this. “What is important to me and defines me as a teacher I think is my collection of misfit toys who somehow always end up in my room.”, referencing how so many students are comfortable in his room. Going just to visit him, playing games such as chess or card games with him. Even myself, I always went to his room to play Rummy, and I always beat him. He has created an environment for everyone, just as he always strives to do, and is an amazing teacher. Thank you, Mr. Heller.
