Night Classes

After an unexpected summer break due to Cal Poly's budget cuts, I returned to taking night classes in the Educational Multimedia program this Fall. My first night of class was extremely interesting. It was a DVD Productions course. I was expecting more of the same in terms of introductions to educational technology. To my pleasant surprise, the instructor taught the class as if we were film school students. It was his first day on campus, and because of technical difficulties, he couldn't present with his prepared PowerPoint slides. Though I was curious to see the quality of slides presented by a film instructor, I treasured last night's lecture very much. It is rare these days to sit through a lecture without PPT. And since most PPT decks are bad, many lectures are bad. Mr. Scott was so knowledgeable and fun to listen to that I was glad there weren't any PPT slides.

I now wonder how my students feel about my visual presentation each day. Are they so tired of it that they wish I wouldn't use it? As I was walking to my room this morning, I also wondered what it feels like to be a student walking into Mr. Yip's class each day.

T.O.Y.

Our district held a reception for the Teachers of the Year this past Tuesday. I was blessed with the opportunity to be in the same room with some of the best educators. Before the ceremony, I had brief chats with different members of the district. Each of the school's administrator introduced the school's teacher of the year. I was awed and humbled by these outstanding teachers' dedication and grace. My principal could not be there that night, I am grateful for Mrs. Gayton's classy introduction. She continues to be a huge inspiration. The highlight of the evening was the honoring of Ms. Walker as she was our district's teacher of the year. We wish her the best as she progresses to future rounds of the county selection process. I strive to continue to work hard and improve as a math teacher.

Old Veteran

I am a part of the "chain gang" for our school's football team. It can be an enjoyable duty, though I joked that it's really detention for teachers and that the half-time is our recess. During the game, an old veteran GHS math teacher came to visit us. To my surprise, Mr. Anderson knew me. He has taught for 36 years, 18 with our school. I took advantage of the opportunity and asked him many questions. Mostly about how I can improve and stay positive in the long run as a teacher. I learned that there are no secrets - he highlighted working hard and treating everyone with respect as keys. Also, Mr. Anderson complimented Ms. Kwak's amazing work ethic and talent as an educator. He said that he thought he was a good teacher up until he met her. Lastly, he said that the students are ultimately responsible for their learning. I still have more questions...

Buddy Teacher

My principal gave me the honor to be a "Buddy Teacher" for one of the new math teachers. This "new" teacher was actually the valedictorian of her class at our high school some years ago. Also, she has already taught at LAUSD before. She is very bright and enthusiastic. Frankly, she doesn't need me much at all. I recall the difficulties that I faced during my first year and how thankful I was for Mr. Mulfinger's support. I must have gone into his room to whine each day during the entire first semester. Yet, he stayed positive and encouraged me each time. I hope to stay positive as the year progresses and maybe, just maybe, someday I can be like Mr. Mulfinger or my current department chair Ms. Kwak.