Robert Goetschkes
Robert Goetschkes: An Education Expert and Charitable Professional
With an impressive 25 years of experience in education, Robert Goetschkes is a highly knowledgeable subject matter expert in the field. Throughout his career, he has developed exceptional skills in classroom management, curriculum development for public schools, and the establishment of strong connections with students.
Educational Background and Service to the Community
Born and raised in Mahopac, a suburban area of New York City, Goetschkes drew inspiration from his father, a firefighter and plumber, who instilled in him a desire to become a hero. He fulfilled this aspiration by joining the Coast Guard during the first Gulf War. Goetschkes completed his high school education at Mahopac High School in New York City in 1984. He further pursued his academic endeavors at SUNY Oneonta, where he studied history, economics, and foil fencing, graduating in 1988. Later, he obtained a Master of Arts Degree in Elementary Education and a Field Endorsement in Secondary Social Sciences.
Goetschkes’ strong determination to succeed led him to work three part-time jobs throughout the year and take out loans to finance his college education independently. This resilient attitude extended to his service in the U.S. Coast Guard for 11 years, during which he earned recognition as a member of the prestigious Alpha Sigma Lambda Honors Fraternity in 2002.
Goetschkes joined the U.S. Peace Corps after college expanding his educational horizons beyond the United States. During his two-and-a-half years of service in Tonga, he actively engaged in community-based projects, fostering connections and giving back to the global community. His travels to India, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji gave him a broad perspective that greatly influenced his teaching career, during which he had the opportunity to shape the minds of hundreds of students.
Teaching Achievements and Military Honors
Goetschkes’ dedication to serving his country extended to his enlistment in the U.S. Coast Guard during the first Gulf War. His commendable service in the Coast Guard earned him several notable awards, including the USO General Dynamics Community Service Award in 1995, the Navy League Award for Outstanding Military Service in 1996, and two consecutive Good Conduct Awards from the USCG in 2000. Additionally, he received the National Ski Patrol 10-Year Service Award in 2017.
Outside of his military service, Goetschkes’ hard work and commitment were recognized in various other contexts. He received a Certificate of Appreciation for Peace Corps Service from President Bush in 1992. 2006 he was honored with the Teacher of the Year Award from the Norwin School District, highlighting his exceptional educational contributions. Furthermore, he received the Knights of Aksarben Good Neighbor Award in 2012 and another National Ski Patrol 10-Year Service Award in 2017.
Transition to Charitable Work and Community Engagement
Currently, Robert Goetschkes is a warehousing professional at the Leeward Light Charitable Foundation, a full-time role that allows him to apply his critical thinking skills and passion for efficiency. The Leeward Light Charitable Foundation operates charitable thrift stores throughout New England, using the profits to support various local charities and foundations. Since 2009, the foundation has donated over $3 million to the community, working toward its mission of providing food, clothing, and comfort to those in need.
Family, Legacy, and Community Service
Following his honorable discharge from the Coast Guard after 11 years of service, Goetschkes married and started a family. As a father, he strongly believes in the power of education and service to create a lasting legacy. In addition to his achievements as an educator and decorated veteran, Goetschkes dedicated his time to various community programs. For five years, he actively served in the Red Cross Disaster Services Department, ensuring that victims of natural disasters received essential provisions such as food, water, and shelter. Moreover, he collaborated closely with the Henry Doorly Zoo for five years as an aquarium diver, using his skills acquired in the U.S. Coast Guard to contribute to the maintenance and development of aquarium programs.
Pursuit of Personal Interests and Outdoor Activities
In his personal life, Goetschkes remains an avid learner, fueling his passion for continuous growth. Whether engaging in writing, fly fishing, disc golf, cooking, or bird watching, he approaches his pursuits with the same dedication he exhibited throughout his teaching career. Notably, he became a Certified Sous Chef with the American Culinary Federation. Furthermore, he cherishes quality time spent outdoors with friends and family. His love for winter sports originated from childhood vacations in the Adirondack Mountains. When not engaged in his backgammon game or creating culinary masterpieces, he actively participates in skiing, kayaking, mountain biking, surfing, sailing, and scuba diving.
Robert Goetschkes exemplifies a multifaceted individual who has dedicated his life to education, service, and philanthropy. His unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others resonates through his professional achievements, community involvement, and pursuit of personal passions.
Robert Goetschkes 