Menu

Robert Goetschkes

Robert Goetschkes: A Lifetime Dedicated to Education and Service

With an extensive twenty-five years of first-hand experience in classroom management and instruction, Robert Goetschkes has established himself as an esteemed subject matter expert in education. Throughout his career, he has skillfully developed curricula for public schools, refined teaching methodologies, and fostered strong connections with his students, building a remarkable portfolio of skills.

Transitioning his critical thinking abilities and passion for efficiency, Goetschkes now devotes his expertise to the Leeward Light Charitable Foundation, where he serves as a dedicated warehousing professional. In this full-time position, he continues to make a positive impact by contributing his strategic mindset to support the foundation's noble cause.

An Education Nurtured


Growing up in Mahopac, a suburban community near New York City, Goetschkes drew inspiration from his father, a heroic firefighter and plumber. Motivated by his father's example, he made the courageous decision to join the Coast Guard during the first Gulf War, embarking on a journey to serve his country.

Goetschkes pursued his academic path at Mahopac High School, graduating in 1984. Continuing his studies at SUNY Oneonta, he immersed himself in subjects such as history, economics, and the art of foil fencing, culminating in his graduation in 1988. Further advancing his educational qualifications, he earned a Master of Arts Degree in Elementary Education, specializing in Secondary Social Sciences.

Throughout his educational journey, Goetschkes exemplified an unwavering can-do attitude. Working multiple part-time jobs year-round and independently shouldering the financial burden of his college education, he demonstrated immense determination. This resilient mindset continued to shape his path through his teaching, career, and the remarkable 11-year service he rendered in the U.S. Coast Guard. His outstanding achievements earned him entrance into the esteemed Alpha Sigma Lambda Honors Fraternity in 2002.

Global Perspectives and Teaching Excellence


After college, Robert Goetschkes expanded his educational endeavors beyond U.S. borders by enlisting in the U.S. Peace Corps. For two and a half years, he resided in Tonga, engaging in community-based service that enabled him to establish meaningful connections, foster relationships, and contribute to the global community. Extensive travels to India, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji during this period provided him with a worldwide perspective that enriched his ability to mold the minds of countless students over his distinguished 25-year teaching career.

Teaching with Honors


During his dedicated service in the U.S. Coast Guard, Goetschkes received numerous honors and awards, including the USO General Dynamics Community Service Award in 1995, the Navy League Award for Outstanding Military Service in 1996, two consecutive Good Conduct Awards from the USCG in 2000, and the National Ski Patrol 10 Year Service Award in 2017. These prestigious accolades hold deep personal significance for Goetschkes, symbolizing the growth and development he experienced during his time in the Coast Guard.

In addition to his military achievements, Goetschkes garnered recognition for his unwavering commitment and outstanding service beyond the martial realm. Noteworthy accolades include the Certificate of Appreciation for Peace Corps Service presented by President Bush in 1992, the National Ski Patrol 10-Year Service Award in 2017, the Knights of Aksarben Good Neighbor Award in 2012, and the Teacher of the Year Award from the Norwin School District in 2006.

Leading with Philanthropy


Currently, Goetschkes contributes his skills and expertise to the Leeward Light Charitable Foundation, a distinguished 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that owns and operates charitable thrift stores throughout New England. The foundation's mission revolves around channeling all profits into the community through donations to various existing charities and foundations. As a warehousing professional, Goetschkes ensures the foundation's continued impact in meeting the community's needs.

Although he finds joy in his well-deserved retirement from teaching, Goetschkes remains driven to give back to the community in a meaningful way actively. The Leeward Light Charitable Foundation's remarkable contributions, totaling over $3 million since 2009, serve as a testament to Goetschkes' dedication and commitment to addressing the essential needs of community members, including providing nourishment, clothing, and solace.

Family and Community: A Lasting Legacy


Following his honorable discharge from the Coast Guard after eleven years of devoted service, Robert Goetschkes embarked on a new chapter in life as a loving husband and father. Guided by the belief that education and service forge enduring legacies, Goetschkes strives to instill these values within his family.

In addition to his illustrious career as an educator and decorated veteran, Goetschkes actively volunteers his time with various community programs. For five years, he served in the Red Cross Disaster Services Department, a vital organization focused on rebuilding communities by delivering immediate relief in emergencies. Goetschkes and his team worked tirelessly to ensure that victims of natural disasters had access to essential provisions, including food, water, and shelter during the aftermath of crises.

Continuing his dedication to public education, Goetschkes engaged in a fruitful collaboration with the Henry Doorly Zoo as an aquarium diver for five years. Through this role, he utilized the skills honed during his time in the U.S. Coast Guard to contribute to the maintenance and advancement of the zoo's aquarium programs.

Pursuing Passions and Enriching Lives


Goetschkes nurtures an unwavering love for learning in his personal life, manifesting in various hobbies and interests. Whether immersed in writing, fly-fishing, disc golf, cooking, or bird watching, he wholeheartedly invests in these personal pursuits, reflecting the same passion and dedication he exhibited throughout his teaching career. Notably, Goetschkes attained the prestigious title of Certified Sous Chef from the American Culinary Federation, a testament to his culinary expertise.

Furthermore, Goetschkes actively embraces the outdoors alongside friends and family. The Adirondack Mountains, where he spent cherished childhood vacations, kindled his lifelong love for winter sports. When he's not refining his backgammon skills or creating culinary masterpieces at home, Goetschkes can be found skiing, kayaking, mountain biking, surfing, sailing, or scuba diving, reveling in the boundless wonders of the natural world.
 

An Exemplary Individual


In summary, Robert Goetschkes personifies an extraordinary individual, embodying excellence in education, philanthropy, and personal pursuits. Driven by an unwavering commitment to lifelong learning, compassion, and community, he has made an indelible impact on countless individuals fortunate enough to have crossed paths with him. Goetschkes' extraordinary journey epitomizes the qualities of an exceptional educator, a compassionate humanitarian, and a catalyst for positive change within his community and the wider world.

Created using the new Bravenet Siteblocks builder. (Report Abuse)