After finishing a lesson, Social Studies teacher Mr. Brad Begemann stands at the front of his classroom. He then moves around his classroom to look for ways that he can help his students.  He stops and assists a student with getting her Chromebook out and logging onto the assignment for the day.  

Mr. Begemann started as a new teacher at the school as well as a defensive line coach for the football team.  Adjusting to Fort Osage and getting back in the classroom hasn’t been difficult for Mr. Begemann. He’s had no trouble settling in and getting comfortable. “The technology was different as far as the administration side versus the classroom teacher side,” Mr. Begemann said. “Not that it’s been a big issue, if anything it’s more useful.” 

This is not anything new for him, as he has been teaching for 11 years.  He has taught at Raytown High School, Richmond High School, Odessa Middle School, and spent the last five years doing administration work.  Freshman Ragan Filmore has Mr. Begemann for Recent American History. 

“He answers your questions and he’s genuinely nice,”  Filmore said.  

His passion for teaching has not always been crystal clear though.  Mr. Begemann attended William Jewell college, where he played and coached football.  He realized his love for education while he was an athlete at William Jewell.  Freshman Nayla Hernandez appreciates the help she receives from Mr. Begemann. 

“He’s helped me in many ways by explaining and going through the notes step by step,” Hernandez said. 

Mr. Begemann enjoys the environment that Fort Osage creates.  He feels that it is a safe place where he belongs.

“I love the large student body and the Freshman Center,”  Mr. Begemann said.  

At the end of the period, Mr. Begemann heads back up to the front of the classroom.  As his students finish the assignment for the day, he tells them to pack up their things before the bell rings.  He then starts preparing to teach the next group of kids.