After over three decades at Meridian, Dr. Albert DeFazio is retiring from teaching.
Due to his many years of teaching at what was then George Mason High School, several current teachers were students in DeFazio’s class. Today, some of them reflect on their years in his class and his decision to retire.
“I had him in sophomore year,” IB Coordinator Josh Singer reflected. “I think it was his first year here. It was an eye-opening experience for me because for the first time, at least in English, I had a teacher who truly challenged me. He held me to high standards and wouldn’t expect anything less than my best. I learned a lot of hard lessons that year that I’ve carried with me the rest of my life.”
Despite his tough-love grading system, many teachers remember him for his generosity and warmth.
“I did really enjoy being in his class,” science teacher Isabelle Psaki remembered. “I liked the discussions, I liked the work that we did and I really, really enjoyed the books. It was just a really fun year and DeFazio is really kind. We had him first thing in the morning, so he would often bring us bagels and treats, and it was really sweet. He’s actually got such a soft, kind side.”
Some teachers even credit DeFazio with improving their literacy skills.
“[He taught me in] senior year IB HL English, which was my favorite English class of high school,” science teacher William Stewart recalled. “I remember planning presentations with my friends. I remember Hamlet, Macbeth, The Sun Also Rises and Moby Dick, to name a few. Dr. DeFazio held us to a high standard but gave great feedback and helped me improve as a writer.”
Considering that DeFazio is retiring, Meridian is going to lose the wisdom and expertise that comes from teaching for over three decades.
“The average IQ of this building is going to drop significantly,” Principal Peter Laub said. “He brings a work ethic like someone I’ve never seen, and he cares about teaching and learning so much that he inspires his principals, and I think that’s pretty special. I’m gonna miss him.”
DeFazio recalled fond memories with his students throughout his teaching career.
“I think what I will miss most is exploring questions about what it means to be human with energetic students,” he said.
Further, he looked back on how fulfilling teaching was at Meridian.
“I think one of the most rewarding things I see from students that I’ve had in the past is when they return, they say they enjoy reading. It is rewarding to see them because they enjoyed academics enough to stay involved with it, so that’s good.”
DeFazio has also been teaching part-time at George Mason University. When asked if he will continue after his retirement at Meridian, he answered, “I’m still teaching there. It’s my 38th year there. I’m teaching [at GMU] part time but I’ll continue teaching there until I can’t do it anymore.”
During his retirement, DeFazio plans to spend more time with family and pursue other interests.
“I am going to take care of my three granddaughters in Williamsburg, keep my wood stove populated with wood, and wrestle alligators (mostly small ones),” DeFazio joked. “I also do a little woodworking, and I have a little antique shop.”
Finally, DeFazio commented about the amazing staff and coworkers who will take over the department after his retirement.
“I’m especially encouraged at the students of mine who have come back,” DeFazio added. “When you step away from a profession after 30 or 40 years, it’s nice to see who’s still there and it’s very cool to see. Iit’s good to know that the profession is left in very capable hands.”
