By Nicole Rosiello, ’17, Lighter Fare Editor
Dr. Jeremiah McCall has been teaching World History in the Upper School for over 10 years. He’s known for using games, both computer-based and offline, to help his students become more immersed in the material they’re learning. His office is often a home to some of his students, both past and present. Their accomplishments, whether it be artistic or academic, flower across his walls. The spaces that aren’t filled with beautiful pictures or scientific diagrams are filled with shelves, stocked with both books and board games. While his room may be packed with hundreds of items, he’s hand-picked five which are especially important to him.
My Books
Dr. McCall’s body of work rests next to his computer. Some of his recent additions include the new Swords and Cinema: Hollywood Vs. The Reality of Ancient Battle, which was written this year, and The Sword of Rome: A Biography of Marcus Claudius Marcellus, which was published in 2011.
“I’m proud of them- I worked really, really hard on them. It’s kind of like having doctor’s robes: it’s the only thing that reminds you that you did something cool once, because it’s really easy to forget that.”
My Folder of Positive Notes
In the back on one of his filing cabinets, Dr. McCall has accumulated 
countless letters, cards, notes, and drawings.
“This folder has all the positive notes I’ve ever received from students or parents. I keep it because teachers need a pile of these things to remind themselves that they’ve actually made a difference, since it’s not always easy to remember that day-to-day.”
The Republic of Rome
The Republic of Rome is one of the many board games Dr. McCall keeps in his office. This one stays along with the hope that his 12th grade students will eventually succeed at playing it.
“Someday my 12th grade classes are going to play this and be successful; we’re going to learn so much about Roman history through playing this game. We have not succeeded at that yet, but I believe we will someday. It’ll be an amazing active learning way to think about the Romans.”
My Acoustic Guitar
Dr. McCall’s acoustic guitar stands propped up against one of his shelves. It’s covered with notes, comics, and stickers, including one jokingly stating This Car Climbed Mt. Washington.
“I am so grateful that I have gotten back into guitar with Mr. Dahl and Mr. Miller. Even though this isn’t my favorite guitar, since it’s not my electric guitar, it’s a really important thing to have in my office. It reminds me to play and to be musical.”
A Few Choice Quotes from the Buddha
Some of the Buddha’s teachings are printed out and tacked up on Dr. McCall’s wall. They’re verses from Cittavagga: The Mind.
“I think the Buddha had a really good understanding of worrying minds and how to calm them. I always find these words very helpful in life.”
