Dynamic Duo: John Jacobs and Daniel Van Winkle

Although Daniel Van Winkle and John Jacobs just started working with each other three years ago, their connection goes much further back. The duo are cousins and have been friends with each other since birth.

Through their witty personalities, the two have brought a positive and lively atmosphere to the history department.

Van Winkle teaches American History and World History, while Jacobs teaches American Government, American History and Criminal Justice.

In addition to teaching, both Van Winkle and Jacobs are coaches for the Bettendorf athletic program. Jacobs is the assistant girls swimming coach, while Van Winkle is the assistant girls soccer coach.

"Coach Van Winkle is a very energetic and positive person and always makes sure that everyone feels valued and is a part of the team,” soccer player Allison Whitaker said.

Learn more about Van Winkle and Jacobs below!

What is it like teaching with your phenomenal cousin?

Jacobs: "I wouldn't say he is phenomenal. He is just above average. I guess that it is nice when he gives me gum."

Van Winkle: "It is very mediocre. He folds like a lawn chair under pressure."

You’re a new addition to the crayon box. What color would you be and why?

Jacobs: "I would go with burnt sienna because it is a strong color that leaves its mark on the page. I like to believe that I am a very strong color."

Van Winkle: "I would be space blue because it would be awesome."

If you were a pair of shoes, what kind of shoe would you be?

Jacobs: "I don't know. I would probably say cleats. They are comfortable and firm, yet also pretty jagged. I can be pretty mean if I need to be."

Van Winkle: "I would go with any Under Armour shoe, as we are an Under Armour school."

If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Jacobs: "I could just have a 16 ounce porterhouse steak and just eat that like all the time. I'd be as content as a cucumber. I used to make steaks for breakfast. My old roommates would get mad at me because I would be outside in the winter grilling at 7:30 a.m.

Van Winkle: "Pizza."

You are about to get into a fight. What song comes on as your soundtrack?

Jacobs: "Danger Zone by Kenny Loggins. It's the 'Top Gun' song."

Van Winkle: "I would probably go with the Seth Rollins theme song." (Seth Rollins is currently a double champion wrestler for the WWE.)

How do you feel about putting pineapple on pizza?

Jacobs: "I tried pineapple on hamburgers for the first time earlier this summer. I was pleasantly surprised. I think that it is something that we should consider moving forward. I think that the pineapple deserves its chance. Heck, if anchovies can be on pizza, why can't pineapples?

Van Winkle: "Horrible. The stupidest idea of all time."