Daniel Koch

Behind-the-Wheel Instructor

As a Behind-the-Wheel driving instructor, Dan draws from his wide range of experience in education and in international business. Dan taught in the Portland Public Schools for 14 years and developed and piloted experimental programs in ESL education. During those years he also founded a successful import furniture business which grew from a small, part-time hobby operation into a national wholesale business with showrooms and sales reps across the U.S. He sold the business in 2002 and since then has consulted on small business development projects.

Now semi-retired, Dan has returned to his educational roots. He joined ODEC in 2007 as a driving instructor due to his belief that "As an educator, I believe there is no more important life-skill for anyone, teen or adult, than to become a safe, skillful and courteous driver." Dan teaches in a calm, competent manner and considers each student's experience, skill level and needs during his driving classes.