Nathan Mastbergen is a unique part of the English department. Mastbergen has taught for 12 years in 3 different states. He is the only male English teacher in an all female English department at Pella High School. 

Laura Fank teaches English 9, English 10,  Communication Skills, and Advanced Writing. She feels Mastbergen contributes to the English department. 

“Mr. Mastbergen brings a fresh perspective to the department, not just because he is male, but also because he is the youngest and, like most of you, has different background experiences to draw from,” said Fank. “He grew up in northwest Iowa, which is different from the rest of us, played college soccer, and then coached soccer here, taught in Louisiana,…and he can draw on all of those experiences. The diversity in our experiences as a department helps inform our decisions as a department.”

Fank says that Mastbergen is unique in many ways. She appreciates that he has good technology skills.  He is also knowledgeable about music, pop culture, and pro basketball.  She adds that Mastbergen is also most likely to dance in the classroom or participate in handstand competitions in the hallways. 

“He brings energy and creativity to our department. I appreciate his perspective and think he helps push me and the rest of the department to be our best,” said Fank. “He is an insightful, dedicated teacher, great at connecting with students, and fun to work with. He is a very positive addition to our department.”

Sophomore Jersey Blackburn appreciates Mastbergens teaching style. 

“He is a unique teacher because he embraces being himself,” said Blackburn. “He’s not afraid to stand his ground, and he’s always cracking funny jokes that get the class cackling.”

Mastbergen thinks that it is important to have a male English teacher. 

“I think reading and literacy are super important in life,” said Mastbergen. “And so, I think it’s important that young men see somebody who values reading, who values writing, because those are super important skills.”