David Kreutz '88, M.Ed. '95

Dr. David Kreutz

Class Year

’88, M.Ed. ’95, Ed.D ’19

Current home

Libertyville, Ill.

Major(s)

Biology and chemistry

Current Position

Anatomy/Physiology Teacher at Libertyville High School

Dr. David Kreutz ’88, M.Ed. ’95, completed the Doctorate of Education Program at Northcentral University with a focus on the Pedagogy of Human Anatomy Instruction in July 2019. He teaches five sections of Human Anatomy/Physiology to juniors and seniors at Libertyville High School in Illinois, and has received a variety of accolades:

  • National Presidential Award in Math and Science
  • Radio Shack Teacher of the Year
  • American Chemical Society Teacher of the Year
  • Senator Herb Kohl Fellowship Award
  • Southeastern Wisconsin Educator Hall of Fame

His specific major, natural science, has been replaced by more targeted programs at Carthage, but Mr. Kreutz credits chemistry and biology faculty for his development. 

“I enjoyed the opportunity to show students how to learn by doing. I teach real, usable hands-on lessons since I believe involving students is the key to learning.”

Dr. David Kreutz, ’88, M.Ed. ’95, Ed.D ’19

How did Carthage prepare you?

“I was lucky to have many of the original science professors of the Kenosha campus…All of these people gave me hands-on experience that molded my path as an educator. It was Dr. (Kenneth) Hamm who gave me an internship opportunity that turned into a career in product development. Later, I used that knowledge to teach students how to create their own products. I also believe the teachers at Carthage talked to me as a partner in learning, which gave me a sense of belonging and promoted ownership in new ideas and learning.

“At Carthage, I was able to get involved with the equipment in the science labs. We not only learned the theory, we were able to apply it by using the equipment to achieve experimental data.”

How has your liberal arts education benefitted you?

“The liberal arts education gives you a unique perspective of subjects. I entered Carthage as an accountant and graduated as a scientist, and that directional change in major was nurtured by the teachers in the sciences.”

What's your favorite Carthage memory?

“My Carthage memories are mostly those of friendships I’ve made with the teachers and fellow students. Many of my best lifelong friends have come from my Carthage experience. By joining academic and social fraternities, I was able to develop leadership skills. Being president of a fraternity gets you directly connected to the school’s administration, which was a fantastic way for me to mature and hone my skills of collaboration and consensus decision-making.”

Tips for current Carthage students?

“Follow the direction which piques your interest. If you take a class that opens your eyes to experiences you never knew but find exciting, take another course and soon you will find your path.”


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