MITCHIE BACKIEL
Science Teacher 1961 – 1998

If motivation is the key to good teaching, Mitchie Backiel discovered the secret long ago. Appealing to the spectrum of students from AP scholars to slow learners, Mitchie offered all his students an exceptional experience in science: to be willing to risk error by experimentation, to make insightful correlations, and to reach for a clear understanding of systems.

Memorable especially were lessons on photosynthetic cycle, the geological history of the school grounds, and field studies on the beaches of Cape Cod. A unique pedagogical personality, Mitch demanded and received respect. His spontaneity and sensitivity to “capturing the moment” inspired students to be open to the unexpected and to be precise in observation and writing.

Students said, “You work HARD in that class” and then, after a year of grueling lab practicals, he invited them to outdo his own recipe in a cheesecake contest. Mitch’s students tasted the rewards of his classes long afterwards, and many continued in scientific careers.