Dallas Stars Teacher Highlight and Most Valuable Teacher March Nominee!

Future GoalsTM Program

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Dallas Stars Teacher Highlight and Most Valuable Teacher March Nominee!

Name:

Jacob Aaron Smith

School:

Eisenhower Middle School in North East ISD

Classroom Team:


Why did you decide to become a teacher?

I have always enjoyed helping young people find out about themselves. I had teachers who encouraged me to figure out problems, enjoy math and computers, navigate the ‘rough times’ of middle school and high school. I thought that if I became a teacher, perhaps I could help some students figure out they are more than just a good grade.

What has been your most memorable moment as a teacher?

A couple of years ago I was contacted by a student to attend a recognition ceremony. At this ceremony students were recognizing teachers who had impacted them along their journey from kindergarten to graduation. My previous student selected me among all of the ones he had had to be a ‘reason for his success.’ I taught the student in 6th grade and at that time he was a 12th grader. So knowing that he still considered me influential was a special time.

What is your favorite part of Future Goals and how are you using it in your classroom?

I have enjoyed the multiple approaches to STEM that it has embedded in it. My students were given the modules as an assignment to see real world application to their studies here at school.

What was your student’s reaction to the program?

The best reaction so far has been one student crying out “I had NO idea there was so much math & science in hockey. This is crazy!”

Who is your favorite hockey player?

Ben Bishop I like an overcoming struggle story. Mr. Bishop did not find success right away, but has kept working on his craft, trying to get to be the best he can be for the Stars.