Teacher Raps His Way Into Students’ Hearts at Excel Academy of Southwest

“All those unseen, all those unique, this is for the light that shines when the world tries to dim it.”

These words open I’m a Different Breed, a rap written and performed by Edward Oberdieck, music teacher at Excel Academy of Southwest. The lyrics are personal and purposeful – much like the educator behind them.

Teacher Raps About Inclusion and Resilience

Oberdieck is on the autism spectrum and early on in his adult life struggled to find meaningful employment despite his talent, education, and drive. For years, the opportunity he worked toward felt just out of reach. That changed when Excel Academy of Southwest welcomed him, giving him a chance to do what he had always set out to do: teach music and make a difference in students’ lives. Since joining the team, he has become a standout member of the campus community. He is known for being deeply dedicated to his students and consistently going above and beyond to improve their experience. His efforts earned him campus teacher of the year during the 2020–2021 school year, along with ongoing praise and support from students and staff.

Before stepping into the classroom, Oberdieck worked for several years in retail sales. During that time, he helped customers and built workplace skills while waiting for an opportunity in education. In the 2018–2019 school year, he received a call from longtime friend and school director Jake Benke. Benke offered him a position at Excel Academy of Southwest. At the time, Oberdieck held a substitute license. He accepted the role and immediately embraced every opportunity presented to him.

Music, Mentorship, and Student Connection

During his first several years at the school, he taught a variety of subjects while simultaneously helping to build the music curriculum. During the pandemic, he earned his professional educator license and transitioned into teaching music full-time. He also worked with students in C4, a postsecondary preparation class focused on life after high school. Through these roles, he often shared his own journey with students, emphasizing patience, resilience and the understanding that success does not always follow a straight or predictable path.

Music has always been central to Oberdieck’s life. He comes from a musically inclined family – his father played bass and sang, while other relatives played keyboard and drums. Today, he plays drums, bass guitar, sings, raps, and writes music using digital platforms. That passion carries directly into his classroom. His teaching style centers on energy and connection, with the belief that when students feel engaged, they are more willing to participate and grow. He works to meet students where they are, blending their musical interests with foundational skills and concepts. Along the way, he has helped uncover talents students did not even realize they had, creating moments of pride not just in the classroom, but for families as well.

Creating “I’m a Different Breed”

The rap video I’m a Different Breed was created as part of World Autism Month, following a leadership initiative to elevate the conversation and celebrate it more intentionally. Knowing Oberdieck’s musical talent and his openness about being on the spectrum, the team encouraged him to create something meaningful. The project became his first official music video and a collaborative effort involving colleagues and students.

The inspiration behind the rap comes from lived experience. Oberdieck was bullied during his school years and even into college. Those experiences shaped both his lyrics and his message. The song speaks to people who have been brushed aside, misunderstood, or labeled as outsiders because of their differences. Its purpose is clear – to raise awareness, affirm individuality, and remind listeners that feeling unseen is something many people experience.

By being open about his journey, Oberdieck has built trust with students who face their own challenges. Some have approached him with questions or shared their stories, finding reassurance in his honesty and relatability. He encourages them to recognize their strengths and understand that potential is not defined by labels or surface-level impressions.

A Message of Possibility

When asked what he would say to employers hesitant to hire neurodivergent individuals, his answer is simple and direct: “Give them the opportunity. You cannot know someone’s capabilities until you take the time to truly know them.” If his music video could reach every student on the spectrum, his message would be one of possibility. He believes anyone can succeed by finding what they are good at, whether that is music, art, technology, academics, or something else entirely.

For Oberdieck, Excel Academy of Southwest is the first place he truly felt included, valued, and empowered to shine. And through his music, his teaching, and his example, he continues to help students believe in their own light.