Hi! My name is Mr. Vanderwater and I am going to be your eighth grade Social Studies teacher! My wife, Mrs. Vanderwater, is also a teacher. She teaches 3rd and 4th grade reading at Frederick Douglass this year, be sure to say hello to her if you see her! This is my eighth year as a teacher. I love social studies and all the exploring, learning, and fun we get to have!

I grew up in Greensburg, Pennsylvania, a small town just outside of Pittsburgh. I have a two year old son named Tanner who is running around everywhere! I also have a miniature Dachshund named Bazinga who probably has more energy than every student in this classroom. I believe staying active is very important and have always enjoyed extracurricular activities. I played defensive back and punt returner at Saint Vincent College and have been in the army for ten years, including one tour in Afghanistan.            

I graduated from Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, Pennsylvania with a degree in history and love to teach Social Studies! I could teach it all day! Our great country and the state of Virginia both hold such interesting history and I can’t wait to help you learn all about it! I know I am excited and I hope you are as well! I can’t wait to spend the next year learning with each of you!