Staff Spotlight: Max Kipfer, Frohardt

By Brayden Cook '26

Every week throughout the 2025-26 school year, Granite City Community School District #9 will be highlighting a staff member for going above and beyond to give students a positive experience.

This week’s staff highlight is Max Kipfer. 

Kipfer is an instructional technology and physical education teacher at Frohardt Elementary School.

How long have you worked in GCSD9?
I have been with the Granite City School District for six years.

What are your job titles?
I previously taught 3^rd grade and now I teach technology and physical education.

Where did you go to school?
I went to Bremen High School in Bremen, Indiana. I received my Bachelor's Degree in Tourism Management from Indiana University, and then completed my teaching degree at UMSL. 

What does a typical day look like in your class?
A typical day in my technology class is very interactive and hands-on. You can find us working on computer science activities such as typing, coding, and google skills. We also complete many STEM activities throughout the year including coding robots. 

How do you keep students engaged and excited to participate?
I keep students engaged and excited by challenging them to think outside the box and use their creativity. I instill in my students the importance of STEM and how it will be useful to them in their future.  

What’s the most fun project or activity students get to do?
Coding robots is the project my students love the most throughout the year. They are able to code, solve challenges, drive, and battle these robots. 

Favorite Food?
My favorite food is seafood. I love crab legs, crawfish, and oysters. 

Hobbies?
My hobbies are coaching soccer, traveling and camping with my family, watching my son play sports, fishing, and golfing.  

If you would like to nominate a deserving staff member, please email: information@gcsd9.net