Diane Innerst, recipient of the 2007 Randolph St. John Teaching Award, helps an eighth grader in math class.

Diane Innerst
Middle School Math Teacher


 

Education:   Indiana University of PA for undergraduate degree in education with a math major  and Millersville University for master’s degree in education.

Years Teaching:   24

Years Teaching at the Academy:   14

Family:  husband Joe, sons Robert and Joey (both at the Naval Academy in Annapolis)

Why did you go into teaching?
It was the perfect career for a woman who wanted to be married and have a family because she would have summers off to be with her children.

What kinds of jobs did you hold before teaching?
I worked at a delicatessen for many years – I waited on customers and sliced meats.  I earned money to pay for part of my college education. I started at age 16. Before that I sold cakes in the Central Market in York. Ages 14–16.

What’s the best thing about teaching at Harrisburg Academy?
The dedicated and polite students; the wonderful faculty, staff, and administration that I work with.  


Her role model? “A former high school geometry teacher, Dorna Lease. She was a superior teacher with high expectations for her students


Who is your role model?
A former high school geometry teacher, Dorna Lease. She was a superior teacher with high expectations for her students.   

What’s your most treasured possession?
My family and friends; good health. If it is not to be abstract, then my house.  

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
Australia – this is one of my husband’s favorite places. 

One person you’d invite to dinner is…  
Donald Trump. He’s a shrewd businessman but raising his children with morals. 

What one thing would surprise people about you?
That I enjoy quiet time in my home.