February 27, 2007
I have worked with Craig Butz for two years in my capacity as Director of Instructional Support for High Tech High. I have observed him at work in the classroom and in faculty meetings at High Tech High Bayshore. An accomplished veteran teacher, he has shown a deep understanding of the qualities that we emphasize at High Tech High schools: project-based learning, academic rigor, team building and collaboration, connection to the adult world, public exhibition of work, and performance assessment.
Now in his second year at High Tech High Bayshore, Mr. Butz has made vital contributions as a humanities teacher, advisor, and program builder. He is particularly skilled at engaging students in writing and discussion about issues that are relevant both to them and to society at large. I recall particularly a one-hour discussion he led on real estate development and quality of life, artfully interspersed with Google satellite photos of massive developments in Las Vegas and elsewhere, all while eliciting students' memories and reflections about the places where they grew up.
Mr. Butz has been an influential member of the humanities department, offering support to less-experienced colleagues in linking student project work to California content standards. High Tech High Bayshore has been fortunate to have him as a teacher and mentor over the past two years. I recommend him enthusiastically for any work that involves teaching and learning, knowing that he will be a valued contributor to the community wherever he goes.
Sincerely,
Robert C. Riordan
Director of Instructional Support