For Dan Johnson, history isn’t just a subject—it’s a way of understanding the world, a guide to navigating the future, and a passion he’s shared with Herrin High School students for nearly two decades. As a veteran social studies and AP History teacher, Dan has spent countless hours inspiring his students to not only know the past but to think critically about how it shapes the present and future.

"I’ve loved history for as long as I can remember," Dan says, with the kind of enthusiasm that makes you wish you were back in his classroom. His love for the subject started young. "I was buying history books when I was in elementary school," he says, recalling the Scholastic book orders that sparked his fascination with figures like Abraham Lincoln. Fast forward to today, and that same passion shines through in every lesson Dan teaches.

Dan’s career as a teacher in the Herrin Unit 4 District began in 2005, but his journey in education started long before that. Since 1996, he’s been inspiring students to see the world through a historical lens. "I teach 11th and 12th graders, mostly American History and Civics, and I also have a section of AP U.S. History," Dan explains. His AP course, which can earn students up to six hours of college credit, is a challenging deep dive into the entirety of American history, right up to current day.

But it’s not just the content that makes Dan’s classes stand out—it’s his teaching style. "I want my students to think, to really engage with the material," Dan says. "I’m not just concerned with how they perform on a test or quiz. I care about what they actually learn and retain, especially in social studies. My hope is that they leave high school with a strong understanding of their role as citizens."

Dan has a knack for making history relevant, connecting past events with present-day issues, and encouraging his students to be thoughtful participants in democracy. "We were talking about the principles of the American Revolution the other day—natural rights, popular sovereignty, rule of law," he says. "I told my students that some of them are going to be voting soon. I want them to be thoughtful participants, not just bystanders."

Dan’s ability to foster meaningful dialogue in his classroom is one of the reasons his students respect him. "We talk about civil dialogue," he explains. "It’s not about being right or wrong; it’s about listening, finding common ground, and working together for the greater good. That’s a skill that will serve them well, whether they go into politics, business, or anything else."

One of the most rewarding aspects of Dan’s job is seeing his students succeed, especially in his AP classes. Last year, 87% of his AP U.S. History students passed the rigorous exam, far exceeding both state and national averages, which hover in the low-70’s. "That’s something I’m really proud of," Dan says with a humble smile. "These kids worked hard. I asked them to step up, and they did."

Dan’s dedication doesn’t stop at the classroom door. As an instructional coach and department chair for social studies, he works closely with his colleagues to improve curriculum and support new teachers. "It’s about serving the whole school," he says. "We’re a team here, and we’re all working toward the same goal—helping our students succeed."

Dan’s deep roots in Herrin make his connection to the community even stronger. A 1989 graduate of Herrin High School himself, he understands the town’s history and culture. "Herrin is a unique place," he says. "We’re a community that values its history and its people. It’s not too big, not too small. You get to know the students and their families, and there’s a sense of pride in that."

For Dan, teaching history isn’t just about dates and events—it’s about helping students find their "rudder" in a complex world. "If you don’t know your history, you’re rudderless," he says. "History gives us a foundation, a sense of where we’ve been and where we’re going. It’s not just about looking back— it’s about moving forward."

That belief in the power of history is what drives Dan to continue teaching with the same passion he had when he first started. "There are days when I walk out of class, and I think, ‘I’d almost do this for free.’ It’s just that fun," he says, smiling. "When the kids are engaged, and we’re having meaningful conversations about history and society, there’s nothing better."

Having educators like Dan Johnson in our midst is something to be proud of. He’s not just teaching students about the past—he’s preparing them to think critically, engage thoughtfully, and contribute meaningfully to the future.