The Common Room

The Common Room

I wanted to call the blog something approachable. If you have read about my teaching philosophy, you might connect the dots yourself.

The blog spot is meant to be an area that people can feel safe. I want them to have access to a voice that is trying to help them with their individual pursuits.

A common room could reference a lot of things, but in my mind it is an area where differences can be brought together and shared. Over the years, I have had the pleasure of teaching students from every walk of life. Whether it be national, economic, age, social status, my students have always represented a hugely diverse group of people.

These differences in a classroom were initially terrifying. A lot of people ask me how it works teaching so many different perspectives and personalities, but fo any teacher out there - they already know that each classroom is a jungle in its own way.

My classrooms adapted. As any good class should. We discussed respect and perspectives. We shared insights and arguments. My goal was to bring people together through the classroom experience. I believe that it would lead to a better state of learning and strong bonds with the subject, peers, and teacher.

I was right (as usual).

If you aska lot of my former students about me they may describe me as “chill” “crazy” “funny” “kind” “the smartest person they have ever met”.

What you will come to realize is that my students all describe me in such different ways because my goal was to offer them dynamic lessons. I wanted them to feel happy and safe to learn and chase their pursuits. I realized really quickly as a teacher that one method does not work for a whole class - so I adapted myself. I worked hard to make sure that each student felt heard, felt seen, and felt accomplished.

I miss the classroom days. The chaos of having 20+ people with different ideas all learning together.

I have since adapted and started Hourly Academy so I can help people at the individual level. I want them to have access to help that will lay a foundation for their future learning and achieve those goals they may be striving for right now.

While Hourly Academy is a great way to have 1:1 classes with me and learn, The Common Room is a great way to continue your own learning and get those perspectives. Life is not meant to be lived alone - so use The Common Room to find a community that wants to see you learn and grow.