Oshkosh North lost several math teachers this year, so several individuals have had to step in to fill their positions.

One of those teachers is Mr. Andrew Rathkamp, who currently teaches Algebra 1 in Room 102.

Rathkamp never thought about an Education major at first but always had the desire to set himself up well for the future. He ended up going through several other degrees during college at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh (UWO) before one of his professors introduced him to the idea of teaching. Afterwards, he quickly fell in love with education and the idea of being a teacher.

“The reason I got into teaching in the first place was because I didn’t know what I wanted to do in college and also because of my love for math. The thing I love most is the ability to help kids learn and succeed. It’s very rewarding and makes me feel like it’s worth doing.”

After discovering his desire to be a teacher, Rathkamp taught part-time at Oshkosh West before landing a full-time position at North and so far loves the school and enjoys being a member of the staff. 

“So far it’s been awesome. Everyone’s been nice and has been bringing me in.”

Outside of school, Rathkamp enjoys running daily. He enjoys cross country and has ran in the 2021 NCAA Division III Men’s Cross Country Championships with other UWO Titans. Rathkamp also enjoys watching or reading about sports and playing video games with friends.

Rathkamp offered one piece of advice to high school students.

“My biggest thing is don’t be afraid to be yourself. High schoolers can be very judgmental, and it can be very easy to fall into what others are doing. Once you get out of high school, who you are should matter to yourself.”

Rathkamp enjoys interacting with children through teaching, and hopes to prepare students well for the future.

“At the end of the day, we are helping prepare kids for what’s to come after high school, and I enjoy being a part of that process.”