The New “King” of Civics

By Sarah Christofer, Staff Writer|September 23, 2019

Trenton Anderson

Mr. Josh King of Williamsburg is the newest member of the Social Studies Department, teaching three sections of civics and one of psychology

Tyrone added a new half-time social studies teacher to its faculty this fall. Mr. Joshua King is teaching civics and psychology in room 206 at the high school.

King was hired this summer following the departure of Ms. Olivia Grugan, who left to take a new job and be closer to her family.

So far, King is enjoying his work at TAHS.

“[I like] the sense of community in Tyrone, both within the school and at large,” said King. “Everyone has been extremely welcoming and I’m really enjoying my time here.”

According to King, he especially likes the responsibility of teaching civics.

“Foundationally, [civics] is active in our daily lives. I feel it is important because it is something that influences all [students] and they can actively participate in the political process,” said King.

A 2019 graduate of Penn State University, King majored in secondary education, social studies.

King is originally from the area. He grew up and is still lives in Williamsburg, where he graduated from Williamsburg High School in 2015. While a student at Williamsburg, he participated in football and basketball.

Before coming to Tyrone, King did his student teaching at Bald Eagle Area High School where he taught both civics and US history.

“Mr. King comes to us with an impressively strong student teaching experience in Civics and an obvious yen for working with young people,” said Tyrone Social Studies Department Chairperson Suzy Burket.

Tenth grade student Rachel Stricek enjoys King’s class.

“Mr. King’ s class is really laid back and he does a good job of explaining things in class,” said Stricek.

King’s interest in civics started from his high school social studies teachers.

As far as his favorite topic to teach, King says “It’s tough to pick, but I’ll go with the three branches of government.”

In his free time, King enjoys spending time with his family and friends.