Pittsburgh Penguins January Teacher of the Month

Future GoalsTM Program

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Pittsburgh Penguins January Teacher of the Month

Name:

Mike Griffiths

School:

Latrobe Elementary School/ Greater Latrobe School District

Classroom Team:


Why did you decide to become a teacher?

I am really interested in lifelong learning. My goal each year is to allow my students to build problem solving skills that allow them to always learn.

What has been your most memorable moment as a teacher?

This year we have been separated by homeroom due to COVID. When we’ve had a chance to be in person we have been having street hockey games on the playground. Students that don’t usually participate in sports have been playing every game, and it has been a blast. Definitely a bright spot in a strange year.

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

I love that it can be picked up any day and used in the classroom. I use it as an extension activity for science and math, and the students can pick it up and play any time.

What was your student’s reaction to the program?

I have been using Future Goals for years, and the students love doing something that applies to the real world, especially if they are hockey fans as well.

Who is your favorite hockey player?

I grew up in Philadelphia, so my allegiances are to the Flyers, but I have a lot of respect for the greats of the game, including Sidney Crosby.