Seattle Kraken April 2023 Teacher of the Month

Future GoalsTM Program

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Seattle Kraken April 2023 Teacher of the Month

Name:

Chris Denman

School:

Ellen Ochoa Middle School

Classroom Team:


Tell us about yourself!

I teach 7th grade Math and Science at Ellen Ochoa Middle School in Pasco, WA. I am currently in my 7th year of teaching. I decided to become a teacher because I think math is fun and want to help students find what excites them in school. I coach football and Softball here at the school as well. There is nothing more rewarding than helping a student find their love for a sport. My best memories of school are my athletic coaches. I hope that I can have the same impact on my students and athletes as my teachers and coaches did with me.

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

My favorite part is how the program teaches the students math and science concepts using the game of hockey. STEM is all over in hockey. I am always drawn to the technology aspect of the sticks. I used to think there was just one stick. I have learned that sticks can be tweaked for different uses and the minor changes make a big impact. That in itself requires lots of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math.

Who is your favorite NHL® player and why?

Carey Price. He played for our local Hockey team the Tri Cities Americans and I always enjoyed watching him.

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

I would play goalie. I was a catcher in baseball and I think that I could transfer those skills to the net.