Mr. John Schmidt, beloved Technology teacher at John F. Kennedy High School, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 26, 2020 after a brief, but strong battle with brain cancer. Mr. Schmidt is survived by his wife of 23 years, Paula, and son PJ.
Mr. Schmidt was educated at SUNY Buffalo State College where he earned both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Technology Education. His teaching career spanned over 20 years, first entering the Cheektowaga-Sloan UFSD in September 2007. Mr. Schmidt was also a first lieutenant and commander of the 65th Detachment, 10th Area Command, of the New York Guard located in the Masten Avenue Armory in Buffalo.
During his 13 years at JFK High School, Mr. Schmidt enhanced and developed the Technology curriculum, teaching courses such as Design & Drawing for Production; Computer Aided Design I & II; Principles of Engineering; and Robotics. Mr. Schmidt’s Advanced Studies courses offered students the opportunity to achieve college credit through Erie Community College as well. Furthermore, while teaching at JFK HS Mr. Schmidt was involved in extracurricular activities including the Computer Enhancement Club, and most recently attended our Senior Send-Off Parade to celebrate the Class of 2020.
Additionally, Mr. Schmidt was an active member of the District’s Safety Team, assisting building administration with critically important safety protocols and procedures throughout the school year. In April of 2020, Mr. Schmidt worked on a team that distributed over 200 Chromebooks to high school students and families during the school closure.
Mr. Schmidt cared deeply for each of his students and took pride in celebrating their accomplishments, especially those who completed all 5 Technology courses at the high school level. In the weeks and months ahead, we will be establishing a special honor in Mr. Schmidt’s name to recognize students who achieve this level of success in their Technology education.
Mr. Schmidt’s smile and laughter brought joy and light to all who were fortunate enough to work alongside him. His leadership, tremendous respect for others, collegiality, and care for his students will never be forgotten.
On a personal note, Mr. Schmidt was an avid Buffalo Bills fan and a loving husband and father. To many in our school community, Mr. Schmidt was a leader, a role model, and a father figure. He will be deeply missed by our Cheektowaga-Sloan and JFK HS community.
We will remember Mr. Schmidt forever in our hearts and his spirit will remain present and alive with each passing day.
With Deepest Sympathy,
The Cheektowaga-Sloan UFSD Family
