It’s Thursday- Thank a Teacher: Benjamin Alvord Edition

One of the greatest things about the Thank a Teacher series and learning more about teachers from all across the state. Ben Alvord is a teacher in Tooele and works hard to make a statewide impact. He is passionate about being an excellent teacher and is constantly bettering his craft. You can read about his latest adventure, touring the United States with Driven to Teach, here. Without further ado, meet Mr. Alvord.

Where did you do your teacher prep? Utah Valley University

Where have you taught in your teaching career? Mohave High School in Bullhead Arizona and Clarke N Johnsen Jr. High in Tooele Utah

What is the funniest thing a student has ever said? While teaching about the American Revolution with district staff observing the class a student said “Wait; Alexander Hamilton was white?”

Photo Credit: Vogue

What advice would you give to new teachers? It’s all about relationships. Build a strong culture in your class and strong relationships with your students. Also don’t take work home with you.

Describe any experience you have had in education policy. As a member of the Utah Teacher Fellow cohort I have been presented many opportunities to make my voice heard. One that stands out was the Utah Board of Education asked myself and my colleagues to provide input on changes to the relicensure policy.

What’s the biggest change you would like to see in education? We need to move from content based curriculum to skills based curriculum in every subject. Hand in hand with that is more student led instruction.

Why did you choose to become an educator and why do you choose to stay in the profession? I chose to be an educator because I wanted to make a bigger impact in the world than I could from a corporate job. I stay because I haven’t made enough impact yet.

Follow Ben on Twitter @misteralvord and learn more about the happenings of teachers in Tooele School District.

Thanks for all you do for students and teachers in the state Ben!

Cheers!

Tabitha