Tell us a little bit about yourself. Where did you grow up? Were you identified as gifted when you were young?
I grew up in Lincolnwood, IL and am a proud product of the District 74 Schools. I was identified as gifted early on, and proceeded through an accelerated math program in addition to spending time with other gifted peers, many of whom I remained friends with all throughout high school.
How did you get interested in your subject area? What is your favorite content to teach?
I always enjoyed math. My grandmother taught me to add using a cash register, and I would pretend to be a restaurant owner (both of my grandfathers worked in the food industry). Chemistry attracted my interest later on because of the math involved and the mixing of substances when performing chemical reactions. Currently, I enjoy teaching technology to both teachers and students, though I combine the best of both worlds in my current Chemistry and AP Chemistry classes online.
Tell us briefly about your favorite teacher.
Both of my gifted teachers remain my most memorable today. Mrs. Kotrba taught us everything from world events to tessellations. She let us explore our own interests as well as play rounds and rounds of Krypto (a math game that I play to this day). We engaged in curriculum outside of what was taught in our regular classes, and her teaching style influenced how I learn and how I now teach.
Tell us about a satisfying teaching experience.
Often, the satisfaction of teaching doesn't come for many years, in the form of alumni news. Hearing back from a former student about his or her successes, whether it is in chemistry, science, or any other field, and knowing that I've made an impact or in some way helped shape the success of this student, that's what makes for an extremely satisfying teaching experience to me.
What is it like working with gifted kids? Describe the energy in your classroom.
It is amazing how much these students can get done today. There are no limits or boundaries, and as a result, I place few restrictions in my class. During webinars, students engage in incessant discussions about the material, eager to show what they know and learn what they don't understand. On creative projects, I get to see a whole different side of my students, one that doesn't come across on a homework assignment or exam. Similar to a successful traditional classroom, it's controlled chaos in my online class. Students may be all over the place, learning at their own pace and with their own style, but in the end, all who complete the course accomplish mastery in learning the content and develop the skills needed to succeed at the next level.