“If you take the polar bear out of the Arctic, and you put it in a cage with a kangaroo… And they’re THROWIN’ HANDS…” is one of Charles Harreys’ favorite quotes from his time teaching at North Broward. In his second year of teaching, he had two legendary twins in his class who were constantly delivering the most uproarious quips imaginable. Their comments are so outrageous that the class kept a running document of the best ones, which quickly became a reminder of how unpredictable, creative, and hilarious teaching can be.
Teaching is always a constant presence in Mr. Harreys’ life. Whether through family, summers spent working, or the role models he grow up around, education is something he never strays far from. When picturing his future, he never sees himself living the boxed-in, repetitive life of a desk job. With his mom, aunts, and uncles all working as teachers, education is practically in his blood. Growing up, he worked at summer camps, where he gained life skills like leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and resilience. What keeps him excited year after year is the constant change: new material, new classes, new students, and new experiences. For him, teaching offers joy rather than obligation
Before arriving at North Broward, Mr. Harreys worked at Pine Crest, Ft Lauderdale, for two years before he decided he was ready to make a change. Through a connection with a former lacrosse coach, he was encouraged to apply to NBPS. After being interviewed by Mr. Lindsley, he was invited to teach a demo lesson following the exams. With only three students, Mr. Sal, and Mr. Lindsley in the room, Mr. Harreys demonstrated his teaching style and passion for the subject. That same day, he was offered the position and happily accepted it.
When we ask what advice he gives to students, Mr. Harreys emphasizes two things. First, he believes students will always get out of something what they put into it. Whether it is school, sports, or personal goals, dedication is the key to growth and success. Second, he encourages students to unplug and slow down. Sitting on a beach and watching the sunrise without a phone, or walking into the woods and enjoying the peace and quiet, he believes, is necessary in a world that rarely stops moving.
What makes teaching at North Broward so special to Mr. Harreys is that the opportunities are truly second to none. He has been able to meet teachers and students from all over the world, and the expeditions have taken him to places he never would have imagined visiting. People’s jaws drop when he tells them he has taken students to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, experiences that leave a lasting impact far beyond the classroom.
After more than a decade at North Broward, Mr. Harreys’ enthusiasm for teaching has not faded. Through humor, adventure, and genuine care for his students, he continues to make learning meaningful. For Mr. Harreys, teaching is not just a profession…it is an experience that evolves every year, and one he wouldn’t trade for anything.
