MANSFIELD — As part of Mansfield Public Schools’ new Educator Spotlight series, Superintendent Teresa Murphy would like to recognize Mansfield High School Social Studies Teacher Bill Deasy for more than 30 years of service to Mansfield Public Schools.
Educator Spotlights highlight the important work that Mansfield Public Schools employees perform daily, as well as their unique backgrounds.
Deasy, a Mansfield native, has served as a Social Studies teacher at Mansfield High School since 1990 and has taught a variety of classes, including Advanced Placement U.S. History and Advanced Placement Psychology. Deasy will retire in June 2024 after a 34-year career.
Deasy comes from a long line of educators. His father served as a professor at Bridgewater State University, his uncles served as history professors at Providence College, his mom served as an elementary school teacher and librarian, and his brother currently serves as a reading specialist in Athol. His wife serves as a speech/language pathologist at Roland Green Pre-School in Mansfield.
“Teaching was in my blood,” said Deasy. “I had the opportunity to take classes with my dad and my two uncles. I learned the most about being a teacher from them.”
Deasy is well-known for his creative teaching methods, ability to motivate students, high standards and expectations for student achievement, and encouragement of independent student thinking. In his classroom, Deasy aims to build an environment where students feel safe to take academic risks and to think critically about the world around them.
During his career in Mansfield, Deasy has served as a member of the Academic Council, a co-advisor for the freshman class, and a mentor to new teachers.
Additionally, Deasy, together with MHS teacher and colleague Benjamin Caisse, developed the Senior Project Program, where seniors have the opportunity to select an area of interest and use their final year to investigate it. The program encouraged students to take learning outside the building, pushing themselves out of their comfort zones.
Deasy was recently recognized by the Harvard Club of Boston with the Harvard Book Prize Excellence in Teaching Award, one of five Massachusetts teachers so honored.
“They let me know that the Excellence In Teaching Award goes to a member of the staff at the school who gives more of themselves than is ever expected, expects nothing in return (surprised by any level of recognition), and has a positive impact on the lives of their students,” said Mansfield High School Principal Russ Booth. “Bill fits this description to a ‘T’ and I couldn’t be prouder or think of someone who embodies this description more than him.”
Deasy and his wife Catherine are the proud parents of three children, two Mansfield High School graduates and a current junior.
“I would like to extend my gratitude to Bill for dedicating more than 30 years of exceptional service to Mansfield High School,” said Superintendent Murphy. “Throughout his time at MHS, Bill has served as a mentor to countless students, staff and faculty. His selfless nature is inspiring. We wish him well in his next step in life.”
Outside of school, Deasy enjoys spending time with his family in the Berkshires.
He holds a Master’s degree in social studies from Bridgewater State University, a Bachelor’s degree in political science from the College of the Holy Cross, and an MA in history from Providence College.
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