Adored by many students: the story of Steven Wojtowicz

By Alison Echeverria Soto ’26

Being there for my students isn’t just part of my job, but getting them to understand how important life can be is the most important part,” Wojtowicz says. As a teacher at Derby High School, he has touched countless lives, not just students but coworkers alike. He is always welcoming and reminds everyone that he can be an extra pair of ears, which can sometimes be the most important thing a student truly needs. He validates their feelings and concerns, and for many students, simply having someone willing to listen can make a huge difference in their confidence and even their life decisions.

Born Oct. 10, 1962, at Griffin Hospital, Wojtowicz grew up in a hardworking, close-knit family. His father balanced two jobs to support them, while his mother cared for the home and family until he was 18. Wojtowicz enjoyed a typical childhood, attending St. Michael’s School before moving on to Derby High School, where he graduated in 1980. He was always active, participating in cross country, basketball and baseball throughout his high school years. He went on to graduate from the University of New Haven with a degree in chemistry, got married in 1990 and had children in 2003, 2005 and 2008. He worked as a chemist for 20 years, leaving the job for personal reasons in 2008. After that, he became a stay-at-home dad for three years until he became a substitute teacher in Shelton, eventually finding an open position at DHS.

Coming to school with a positive attitude, smiling, joking around and always being motivational, he brings out the best in his students. He is always laughing and communicating with them, making him one of their favorite teachers in the building. Some students value Wojtowicz more than others, such as Allison Ortega Benites ’26, a student who has only known him for a year but has grown a strong bond with him. She states, “He always wants the best for his students and has motivated me to be better and become the best version of myself for my future.”

His influence not only impacts students’ lives, but he is also seen as a trusted adult in the building who is valued, respected and inspires his students to achieve many accomplishments. Having the passion to teach high school students is a job many teachers find difficult or even a nightmare, but Wojtowicz sees it as an opportunity to connect and build positive relationships that last years. He states, “It can be a pain in the butt to work with these kids, but I enjoy coming here and teaching them, including learning about them every day.”

Staying positive and trying to motivate students is something he struggles with, but he finds it to be the most rewarding job a person can have. He not only impacts students but also fellow teachers. They see him the same way students do, as fun, loud and welcoming, making everyone feel comfortable. For example, he hosts an end-of-year party, inviting all staff to his house to eat, play games and enjoy themselves. Nicole Borges, a teacher at DHS who has worked with Wojtowicz for the past five years, states, “He is an angel and is very sweet and wants to make sure everyone has him as a friend.” He has become a memorable presence among his colleagues and never misses an opportunity to show who he truly is as a person.

Despite the challenges Wojtowicz may face in his job, he remains a positive influence on the school for both teachers and students and has left a lasting impact. Through his humor and positive attitude, he works to ensure everyone receives the education he believes they deserve while also making sure everyone feels comfortable, seen and heard in his classroom.