P. David Correll

"Do as much as you can! To as many as you can! As long as you can!"
"Always do what's right -- no matter what the consequences!"
"Ask not what South can do for you, but what you can do for South!"
P. David Correll was born on January 6, 1940 in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. David graduated from John Harris High School. It was in High School that David learned the value of school spirit. David attended Elizabethtown College where he graduated with a degree in Liberal Arts. At Elizabethtown, David demonstrated his commitment to others by serving as President of the Student Senate.

On August 19, 1961, David married Dianna Hoover. They have four children: Kelly, Dave, Carolyn, and Debbie. David started his teaching career at Mansfield Junior-Senior High School in Mansfield, Pennsylvania in 1961. Toms River High School South was changed forever when he accepted a social studies position with our school district in 1964.

While serving in numerous capacities during his forty-three year career, David will always be remembered for his phenomenal dedication and dynamic personality. His dedication is shown whether he was in the classroom or in the myriad of activities David was involved in directing.

It can be strongly argued that David has had the greatest impact of any educator in the long history and proud tradition of Toms River High School South. It is staggering to think of the countless young men and women whose lives he has touched upon. David has taught much more than history, but also values, pride, tradition and what it means to be an Indian!

Some of the lasting contributions David has made to High School South include originating the following: Senior Week, Senior Night, Senior Awards Night, Most Loyal Fan Award. Advanced Placement History Test Review, Senior Parents Night, Band Recognition Night and Voice of the Indian.

David created long lasting school spirited traditions at High School South including: The Mascots, Preservation of the Victory Bell, Preserving of Downtown Victory Parades, Adapting School symbols and courtyard beautification.

The recognition for David's extraordinary career has been quite noteworthy. He is a two time Indian of the Year and Teacher of the Year award Winner. The yearbook has been dedicated to David on three occasions. It is only fitting that High School South has the “Voice of the Indian Press Box”. The school's beautiful courtyard is dedicated to David. He has been given the Toms River Student Loan Fund Special Achievement Award for Teaching Excellence.

David's outreach into the community is exemplified by his receipt of the VFW Post 6063 Outstanding Citizen Award. David's church activities have been acknowledged by the First United Methodist church of Toms River Award for Stewardship in the schools.

It can be said of P. David Correll that his legacy will truly resonate through the hallways and classrooms of Toms River High School South as long as the “School Upon a Hill” stands. The Toms River Schools Hall of Fame Board of Trustees is pleased to honor P. David Correll as its Distinguished Honoree for 2009.