The Associated Alumni of Central High School (AACHS) is thrilled to highlight Robert (Bob) Barthelmeh (228), former CHS faculty and coach, has continuously remained actively engaged in the Central High community throughout the many stages of his life.
Mr. Barthelmeh (228) wears many hats at Central: student athlete, teacher, coach, class representative, sponsor of several classes (262, 265, 268, 271). Hear from Bob directly on how Central shaped his life, but equally, how his life’s work has shaped the many students and peers who have worked alongside and played for him.
I have been fortunate to experience Central both as a student and as a teacher. As a student, Central had a profound impact on my personal growth and career development. It provided me with a strong foundation for success by instilling in me the values of hard work, discipline and dedication.
Central had so many excellent and inspiring teachers, but Mr. Logan’s English class was particularly memorable. He brought Shakespeare to life, whether delivering a Hamlet soliloquy or enthusiastically acting out Puck in A Midsummer Night Dream.
Athletics were a major part of my Central experience. The many coaches I had at Central taught me teamwork and leadership – qualities that I carried into my own coaching experiences. Mr. Bob Cullman, my baseball and football coach, had a direct impact on my decision to pursue a degree in Health and Physical Education. I cannot count the number of ways I was influenced by his coaching and mentoring over four years and two sports. Central was, and continues to be, highly competitive in Public League sports.
My fondest memory was our 1967 football championship. The season ended in a three way – tie for first place, which was broken by two teams playing each other in the first half, with the winner then playing the third team in the second half. Central won both halves. This unusual tiebreaker was the only time it was used in Public League history.
I am immensely proud of the 228th Class. We have been instrumental in giving back to current and future classes by raising more than our original goal of $228,000. This remarkable accomplishment was made possible through the dedication of our Class Gift Committee and the generosity of our classmates. Perhaps the gift that the 228 will be most remembered for is providing air conditioning units for every classroom.
During my teaching career at Central, I had the privilege of serving as the Class Sponsor for classes 262, 265, 268, and 271. I was encouraged to accept this position by then President Dr. Sheldon Pavel and I will always be grateful for his encouragement, guidance and support throughout my career.
My years coaching baseball, soccer and bowling also provided countless fond memories, including several championship seasons. Perhaps my proudest coaching memory was leading a team to the 2006 PIAA State championship semi-final round. Although we ultimately lost, reaching the semi-finals was a remarkable accomplishment, and, to this day no other Public League baseball team has reached that round.
As a former teacher and now a Substitute Teacher, I am keenly aware how truly wonderful the students are at Central High School. Each day, students come to Central from all parts of Philadelphia bringing with them academic excellence, joy and enthusiasm. Their energy and enthusiasm continue to make Central High School a beacon of light in our city.
“Mr. Barthelmeh has always been a family man - both loyal to his own one with Donna, their two boys and the growing grandchildren there and equally committed to the growth and development of his many “kids” that he advised as a Class Sponsor, Coach, and Teacher. He led us with a level headed mind and a big heart. Pushing us to always be our best and think through every scenario as best as possible. It’s also interesting seeing someone use so many talents for the betterment of the entire School - that’s the special part of all Central faculty and being an educator who cares.”
Ramon Guzman, Jr. 271 (Class President)
