New York Rangers October 2023 Teacher of the Month
Tell us about yourself!
I have been in education for 10 years. I have taught Gr,4, Special ED and hydroponic. I am now a STEM; Computer sci., hydroponics and Civics teacher. I began working as a paraprofessional/TA while in college and found a love for education & decided to pursue education as a career. What I love most about teaching is building relationships with students and helping them find a love of STEM. I connect my own personal interests of sports, cooking and gardening to show students that there is practical application to what we learn in school. Through hydroponics we have been able to grow food to give back to the community, introduce healthier options and fresh produce. I am currently on a participatory budgeting team, working with the city council to make improvements to the school and school community.
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 showing students the real life and sports side of STEM. Many students struggle due to lack of interest and seeing the science and math of sports helps pique their curiosity and interest. In the game of hockey there is simple math in scores and more advanced math in statistics. There is STEM in the science of skating, shooting, speed and velocity, kinetic energy, angles of shots and so much more. The Future Goal program is an engaging way to learn.
If you played hockey, what position would you play and why?
I would play defense. I played lacrosse in HS and was a defenseman. Defense takes a lot of hard work and effort, blocking shots and protecting your goalie and teammates. Defense takes a high level of communication, picking up assignments and situational awareness. Defense (and great goaltending) wins championships!