These days, he and his students are exploring the intricacies of American history and world history.
“I’m looking forward to teaching them about the Civil War,” Peterson said. “Being their teacher is a huge responsibility. If I don’t do a good job, they will miss out on vital information that will help them be successful in life.”
The wisdom of his mentor teachers, Mr. Churchill and Mrs. Dineen, has been an excellent source for providing top-notch education for his students.
“They know the ins and outs of the school and the teaching profession,” Peterson said. “Any question I have relating to anything, I ask them.”
Dineen and Churchill aren’t the only ones who’ve extended a warm welcome. The community’s response has been great as well.
“It’s not just the staff at school,” Peterson said. “Anytime I go anywhere, someone’s introducing themselves to me.”
It seems as if he’s found his new home away from home. In other words, the recommendation his brother, Jeremy Peterson, gave him about the NRHEG school district was right on.
“My brother actually taught here,” Peterson said. “He made it sound like it would be a really good fit for me. I see value in a small town.”
He has one major goal while he is here, to become a vital part of the school and the surrounding community. And as the newest addition to the high school football and wrestling coaching staff, he feels like he’s making some headway.
“Football is going really well,” Peterson said. “I couldn’t be happier with the coaching staff. Since day one, they have been helping me get acclimated to this community. Right away, I could tell we had good relationships.”
With or without the coaching gear on, he's ecstatic to write his own legacy here in New Richland. Clearly, he hopes to stay for a long time.
“I feel like this is a great opportunity," Peterson said. "I love it here so far.”
NRHEG isn’t his first teaching experience though. Last year, his 2010 Augsburg College diploma allowed him to experience substitute teaching at all levels across the metro area.
“I student taught at St. Paul Harding, which is one of the most challenging schools in the state,” Peterson said.”
His mindset was, if he could teach there, he could teach anywhere.
“When I was in 7th grade, on September 11, I watched history unfold right in front of my eyes,” Peterson said. “That was when I first realized I had a passion for history.”
Leading a group towards a common goal is just who he is.
“I feel like it’s my Christian vocation,” Peterson said. "After coming down here and meeting Mr. Cyr, Mr. Stork, Mr. Churchill and Mr. Wellen, it just felt right. I think that’s the most important thing. If you can see yourself and think it’s a good fit.”
