Philly Teacher Heads to Vanderbilt for Math Ph.D.

Eric Faust doesn't just teach mathematics at Hill-Freedman World Academy in Philadelphia. He lives the lesson that passion and hard work can take you anywhere.

This fall, the beloved educator will begin pursuing a Ph.D. in Mathematics at Vanderbilt University. It's an achievement that mirrors exactly what he tells his students every day: learning is a lifelong journey, and big dreams are always within reach.

Faust's path to teaching started in high school when his own math teacher, Mrs. Teresa Sheer, showed him what great education looks like. Now he's paying that gift forward, creating a classroom where students feel supported enough to chase their own ambitious goals.

His teaching style mixes humor, energy, and genuine care. Students voluntarily stay after school for tutoring, not because they have to, but because Faust makes learning feel exciting. He has daily Pokémon discussions with student Jailyn Porter and celebrates kids who help their classmates master tough concepts.

The School District of Philadelphia is celebrating Faust's achievement, recognizing that his commitment to growth sets a powerful example. When students see their teacher pursuing his own education, they understand that excellence isn't a destination but a continuous climb.

Why This Inspires

Faust represents something education needs more of: teachers who practice what they preach. His decision to pursue a doctorate while teaching full-time shows students that adults don't have all the answers yet, and that's okay. Growth happens at every age.

His colleagues describe him as someone who brings positive energy to everything he does. Principal Anthony Majewski and fellow teachers have supported Faust throughout his journey, proving that great schools lift everyone up together.

The students Faust mentions by name, from Gustavo Medina-Tapia to Emely Quizhpi-Loja, represent the real impact of passionate teaching. These young people are becoming the best versions of themselves because someone showed them it was possible.

Hill-Freedman World Academy will miss Faust's daily presence, but his influence will stay long after he leaves for Nashville. Every student who watched their teacher dream big now knows they can do the same.