Detroit Red Wings December 2021 Teacher of the Month

Future GoalsTM Program

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Detroit Red Wings December 2021 Teacher of the Month

Name:

Jill Hume Smithkey

School:

Pennfield Middle School; Pennfield Schools

Classroom Team:


Tell us about yourself!

The 2021-2022 school year is my 12th year of teaching. I’ve taught Math in Tennessee, Illinois, and currently Michigan. I decided to become a math teacher because I struggled to find a reason to enjoy math in middle/high school and I wanted to bring more real life experiences and meaning to students.

Who is your favorite NHL® player and why?

Both former players – Scott Gomez and Gordie Howe. I met Gordie Howe when I was young and it sparked my interest in hockey. (My cat’s names are Gordie and Howie!) Scott Gomez is my other favorite player. I admire his perseverance and positive attitude.

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

My favorite part of the Future Goals™ program is that the lessons are interactive, real life examples of how math is used outside of a classroom.

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

I was an ice hockey goalie when I was younger. I played that position because it ran in my family. My brother, dad, and uncle were/are all goalies.