I had the pleasure of meeting John Carlise at #ECET2SLC. He was nominated as a teacher leader in our wonderful state of Utah. John had some great insight during our Nebo/Provo colleague circle. Here is a little more about Mr. Carlise:
Where did you do your teacher prep? Utah State University 2005-2008
Where have you taught in your teaching career? Payson Junior High, 2008- present
What is the funniest thing a student has ever said? In teaching new vocabulary in a Spanish class, I went over the phrase “No sé” a few times then turned to a student not paying much attention and asked what it meant. The student had a blank stare and said, “I don’t know”. I made the students day by letting them know that they were exactly correct and that they should keep paying attention to learn more phrases.
What one piece of advice would you give to new teachers? Work with students and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Do your best each day to make a small difference in students lives, people do not realize how often the teacher is the only one to care about a student.
What is your favorite teacher resource? There are many that I use. The most used resource is the internet in my classroom. This is made more accessible with improve internet connection and computers that students can use.
Describe any experience you have had in education policy- I have been involved in politics as a delegate and seen the working of policy. I am starting to realize the importance and at the same time the challenge to make change happen in meaningful ways.
What’s the biggest change you would like to see in education? I would like to see school change to allow students the flexibility to have individualized learning how they learn best. Often schools are viewed as factories teaching the same thing in mass, but students need to have the opportunity to learn differently at their own pace and timing.
Thank you John for all your hard work for students in Utah. Your efforts are much appreciated.
Cheers!
Tabitha
The Utah Teacher 