With a marker in hand and a smile on his face, Stephen Barthlow brings understanding to the complexities of high school math.
Stephen Barthlow, a Michigan State University graduate, has spent the last eight years teaching Algebra, Algebra 2 and Geometry at Northview High School. He’s a familiar face in the math hall, and many can see him greet his students with a smile. He has a friendly personality and always cares about his students and fellow teachers. Barthlow was also recently elected to be the new adviser for the Senior class.
Barthlow is very easy to get along with and fun to be around. Although somewhat quiet, he has a way of connecting to students not only as a teacher, but as a friend as well.
“The students are my favorite part about my job, as much as they give me headaches, it is fun to see my students grow as people and as students,” said Barthlow.
Junior Corbin Misner has been a part of Bartlow’s class for the entire year. He did not enjoy math until Barthlow changed his mind on the subject.
“Mr. Barthlow is definitely my favorite teacher, his class is more fun than all my others and he’s really easygoing,“ said Misner.
Barthlow is the kind of teacher students look forward to seeing every day. He keeps things laid back and stress-free in the classroom but still makes sure everyone is learning what they need to. His calm personality makes it easier for students to focus.
Junior Austin Slack has taken two classes with Barthlow in the past and enjoyed not only learning, but also building a student-teacher relationship.
“Mr. Barthlow treats all of his students with respect and makes everyone feel like they can talk to him,” said Slack. “With how chill and laid back he is, I think that also helps students feel more comfortable around him.”
I can attest to this, being in his class for the year. Many students feel comfortable in his class because he treats everyone with respect and patience. He doesn’t make anyone feel bad for asking questions and always takes the time to help everyone understand. Even if math isn’t a student’s favorite subject, Barthlow makes it less stressful and way more enjoyable.
Outside of just teaching, he cares about how his students are doing overall. Whether it’s school-related or something else going on, anyone can tell he wants to see students excel. That’s part of what makes him stand out, he’s not just focused on grades, but on helping others grow. His class is one of those places where the vibe is just right. He has a good balance of being laid back but still getting things done. Students respect him because he respects them first. Barthlow is one of the teachers who makes high school a little better.
I am not the only one who has felt this way, Slack has also experienced this firsthand how much it meant to him.
“Mr. Barthlow has gone out of his way to talk to me and other students and it made me feel like I wasn’t just a pawn in a classroom being forced to learn,” said Slack.
Even outside of class, Barthlow is the same genuine and down-to-earth guy. Students and teachers alike will catch him in the halls with a smile, always giving a nod or quick hello as they pass. He doesn’t need to be loud or overly outgoing. His calm energy just makes people feel at ease. He’s the kind of teacher you can talk to without feeling judged.
He also does a great job balancing school work and freedom. He gives students space to work on their own, but is always there if students need help. That kind of trust makes students more confident and motivated. It’s clear he wants his class to be a space where people feel supported, not pressured.
What makes Barthlow stand out the most is that he really listens. Whether you’re struggling with a problem or just making small talk, he gives you his full attention. He doesn’t just teach, he builds connections with his students, and that’s something people remember long after the class is over.
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