Will Hornblower

High School History Teacher
Parent Education Coordinator

Credentials:

B.A., History and Latin American Studies, University of Chicago
M.Ed., UC Santa Barbara
Teacher since 2003

How many years have you worked at Oak Grove?

Since 2011.

Why do you work at Oak Grove?

Oak Grove creates a climate of learning that empowers students to take control of their own education. Students thrive on a beautiful campus and with teachers who are compassionate and dedicated to their jobs. As a teacher, I work here because I teach every High School student for four years. This allows me to develop close relationships with my students and to witness their growth in a meaningful way.

A quote that inspires your approach to your job.

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover. ” -Mark Twain

Where is your special spot on campus?

I enjoy Disc Golf, so I like to wander the beautiful campus throwing Frisbees at stuff!

Coffee or Tea?

Coffee.

What makes an Oak Grove education unique?

The small class sizes and close relationship with the teachers. We also have a pet hawk named Lucky.

How do we prepare students for their life ahead?

Oak Grove students are asked to look at themselves within “The Mirror of Relationship.” This means that they need to see themselves as others see them. This level of self-knowledge helps them to navigate the challenges of life after High School.

What outdoor experience has been most impactful for you?

I once rode my bike from Vancouver BC to San Diego. Riding a bike is a wonderful way to see the world. At the time, I had never really explored the West Coast. Now I couldn’t imagine living anywhere else!

The best live music performance/concert you ever attended is …

Metallica at the old Boston Garden. So much metal!

Person (dead or alive, famous or not) that you’d most like to share a meal with.

I would love to eat with Socrates, as long as we didn’t have tea afterwards!

Name a place you’ve always wanted to visit, but haven’t yet.

Tokyo for the sushi, ramen, and karaoke.

What is your most bizarre OGS experience?

Having a fully costumed murder mystery party in the middle of the Nevada desert as a part of our 11th grade camping trip.

How many Patagonia clothing items do you own? How many are you wearing now?

Beyond count. Right now I am wearing a shirt and shorts from Patagonia.

Favorite Oak Grove expression?

“It’s Friday!”