INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK: Stephen Lawhorne, Hamlin Middle School

As seventh-grade civics teacher, Stephen Lawhorne instructs 159 Hamlin Middle School students about the importance of civics and how the principles of limited government, individual rights and the rule of law are the founding principles of this country. He focuses on students having fun while learning and guiding them through the process to mastery. He emphasizes mutual respect for one another and being good citizens.

“I like to mix humor, pop culture and friendly competitions in class to make my class as energetic and fun to go to as possible,” he said.

He was named Teacher of the Year in 2020 at SunRidge Middle School.

“Mr. Lawhorne has a knack for making learning fun,” said Hamlin Principal Suzanne M. Knight. “He brings to life civics, which is not always an easy task. It can be seen through his mock trials, gallery walks, constant visual aids, and even class instruction that makes the unit come to life as if he is telling a story. He … participates in all school spirit weeks, attends athletic events, school performances and various extracurricular activities. … He is a true Hamlin Coyote through and through.”

What brought you to your school?

It was a tough decision to leave my previous school, Sunridge Middle School. I wanted to be closer to home and help build new traditions at Hamlin Middle School.

What do you love most about your school?

The students, by far. They are the reason I do what I do each day. I also enjoy working with (everyone) at Hamlin Middle School, from teachers, administrators, support staff to the custodial team. Everyone is here to make a positive difference in every student that attends Hamlin.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

I love what I teach, which is civics. I tell my students at the beginning of the year that this class is the one class you will need for the rest of your life. Many do not believe me early on. As the year goes on, I love seeing my students learn and apply the knowledge to the real world around them. The prosperity of our country is dependent on having informed citizens who know their rights and know the fundamental core beliefs that our country was founded on.

What would you be if you weren’t in this profession?

I would probably be a writer of horror thrillers or a drummer in a rock band.

Who influences you?

George Lucas took his love of history, mythology and film and created his universe in “Star Wars,” which hits on many things that I have found to be fascinating since I was a young kid. From the hero's journey to how democracies can fall to tyrants, to combining classic western with the science fiction genre with a sprinkle of this film homage here and there, he made something fun and hopeful for generations to enjoy. Plus, he created the greatest villain of all time in Darth Vader who is proudly displayed many times in my classroom.

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why?

Mrs. Amos was my first-grade teacher. I struggled in first grade, and she was always there to support me. I also had a friendly feud with her because she was a Florida Gator fan; I am an FSU fan. When FSU would beat the Gators in football, my father and I would decorate her door with garnet and gold streamers. I kept in regular contact with her until she retired. Mrs. Amos, as I got into high school, even suggested that I get into teaching because of my passion for history and storytelling.

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

“Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark,”, hands down. It was the first book I ever read that I enjoyed and wanted to read everything scary after that. Prior to finding that book, I did not like reading at all. That is why I tell my students that reading is reading. Find something you like and just read it. Watch your favorite show with the closed captioning on, because you are reading.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I like to read horror thrillers and American history-related books. I love to binge-watch shows when I find one that I like. I like to spend quality time with my wife and our two dogs, who are my whole world outside of the classroom.

If you could dine with any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why?

This is going to be a group lunch. My dream would be to have lunch with George Lucas, Steven Spielberg, John Williams and Stephen King. We would talk about movies, music, history, books and life in general.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

Jedi mind trick. The force can have a strong influence on the weak-minded and would come in very handy in today’s world that we live in.

If you could only listen to three bands or artists, who would they be and why?

The Beach Boys are my all-time favorite band that I have listened to since I was very young. Their sound and harmonies are classic. Tom Petty was a great artist who wrote such great songs that told stories, and he was a true rock’n’roll icon. Composer John Williams is the greatest movie composer ever who has made so many memorable themes in film that are powerful, beautiful and haunting. He has done it all.

What was your go-to lunch and favorite snack as an elementary student?

The old rectangle school lunch pizza from back in the ’80s. My favorite snack was a Slim Jim or a pack of Sweet Tarts.

What is your favorite holiday and why?

Halloween! Since I was a kid I always loved Halloween. I love decorating and making the house look creepy and scary. I love dressing up for Halloween to scare trick-or-treaters who are brave enough to get candy at my house.

Who was your best friend when you were in school and why? Are you still in touch?

My best friend was Jon growing up. We have been friends since preschool and all through high school. He was my best man at my wedding. I haven’t talked with him in a while. I should probably give him a call.

What were your extracurricular activities as a student? Did you win any accolades or honors?

I’m a proud graduate of Colonial High School! It's great to be a Grenadier! I was involved in FFA and won the best horticulture display at the Central Florida Fair four years in a row. I played football and was on the weightlifting team. In my junior year, I won the most-improved weightlifter.

How long have you been at your school and with OCPS?

I have been at Hamlin Middle School for three years, and I have been teaching at OCPS for 21 years. Before Hamlin, I was at SunRidge Middle School and Colonial Ninth-Grade Center.