Second Generation Special Education Teacher Follows Father's Footsteps

The halls of Kelso High School that Jason Langenbach once walked as a student became the pathway to his very own classroom after he graduated from Central Washington University with his degree in Elementary Education in 2000.

Taking after his father Jim Langenbach, Jason became a special education teacher and currently teaches ELA (English Language Acquisition) life skills, math, and a work readiness class.

“My favorite part of the job is definitely working with the kids,” said Jason. “I also love the opportunity to work with other teachers on various projects, all with the goal of making learning fun and relevant.”

Over the course of his two decades teaching, he has taught a variety of classes all working with students with disabilities.

“I guess I followed in my dad’s footsteps because he enjoyed teaching and was invested in the profession,” said Jason. “Although we never taught at the same school since he worked at the middle school, we did get to teach some of the same students and work with some of the same families which was very honoring.”

While earning his degree, Jason completed his student teaching in Kittitas County which allowed him to apply what he was learning at Central in the public-school setting.

“CWU helped me in a lot of different ways,” said Jason. “It provided me with a solid foundation of learning, gave me a ton of experience, and gave me approachable, experienced professors who I could ask questions to and get feedback. The class sizes were small enough to allow me to work with my peers, and begin the process of networking.”

As he reminisces on his time at Central, Jason would encourage students who are interested in going in to teaching to get experience working with kids before, during, or directly following their coursework. He also says to keep in mind that education professionals are always learning throughout their profession which allows them to grow.

Now in his 21st year teaching, Jason says he is still continuously learning, which sometimes means picking up the phone and calling his dad.