Boston Bruins October 2023 Teacher of the Month

Future GoalsTM Program

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Boston Bruins October 2023 Teacher of the Month

Name:

Brendan Bean

School:

Eliot K-8 Innovation School

Classroom Team:


Tell us about yourself!

My name is Brendan Bean, I am a 7th grade Science teacher in Boston and have been working in BPS for 10 years. I have always been fascinated by science and absolutely love helping students understand how the universe works. Growing up playing and then coaching hockey in Boston, I take every opportunity to link what we see in the Science classroom to the sport that I love. outside of the classroom, I currently spend most of my time with my wife and 6 month old daughter, but look forward to being able to return to coaching youth hockey.

Who is your favorite NHL® player and why?

Far and away my favorite player is current Bruins captain Brad Marchand. I’ve followed his career closely since he broke into the league in 2010. His path to NHL glory is one paved by perseverance, determination and hard work. He was never the top prospect or the biggest guy on the ice, but throughout his career, he has grown into one of the best, most consistent forwards in the game. There is a lot about his character, work ethic and friendships with teammates that my students can benefit from.

What is your favorite part of the Future Goals™program? How do you see STEM in the game of hockey?

I think for me, the best part of this program is the way it can create buy-in from the students. Even the students I have who do not watch or play hockey find the topics relatable and interesting. I think that on and off the ice, we see a myriad of STEM concepts in hockey. Whether it its strength training, understanding angles of passes, using software to make videos to review, or even developing materials for high quality equipment, STEM and hockey go hand in glove.

If you played hockey, what position would you play and why?

I played defense. Typically on the left side, being a left handed shot. I was a decent skater, but my best assets were my vision with the puck as well as my compete level. I liked protecting my end of the ice and getting the play moving in the other direction. I think I would characterize myself as a “stay at home” defenseman, as I typically did not push the pace of lay, but rather focused on my defensive responsibilities.