Matthew is the academic coordinator for SEP. We'll let him explain what that means:
What does your job entail?
My job as Academic Coordinator begins in August, just two or three weeks after Session 3 ends. In the fall, I begin recruiting teachers for the morning classes--prospective teachers submit course proposals and interview with us. Morning course offerings must be finalized before SEP applications are available in December. In the spring, I coordinate a team of raters who read and score each application essay twice. In a process similar to that of the morning courses, I recruit teachers for the afternoon courses. Much of the spring is spent working with teachers as they work to develop the course's curriculum.
During the summer, I coordinate the teacher orientation days as well as provide training and assistance to the counselors as they develop their special topic classes. Once the campers arrive, I spend my days observing in classes and working with teachers as they refine courses based on the knowledge and specific interests of each session's students.
Additionally, I am also the Academic Coordinator of our winter Saturday program for students in grades K-5. I spend the fall recruiting, training and supporting those teachers and teaching assistants. Then, on five Saturdays in January and February, I observe each class and help teachers as they continue to develop their classes in response to each week's experience.
How long have you been with SEP?
This is my first year as the SEP Academic Coordinator. Last year I taught a 5-6 afternoon course called the Mathematics of Geodesic Domes. Many, many years ago, I was also an SEP camper!
What's something about you that someone might not expect if they didn't know you well?
I enjoy visiting good postal museums and transportation museums whenever I can find them while traveling.
What about SEP keeps you coming back?
I really enjoy working with SEP campers and teachers. It's great to be with so many people who enjoy learning and aren't afraid to be seen reading a book or telling their favorite math joke.
What is one of your favorite memories from past years?
The talent shows are always a highlight of each session!
What do you think is the most rewarding part of the job?
One of the most rewarding parts of my job is helping teachers develop their curricula so that campers can experience that "ah-ha moment" when everything seems to fall into place or to have a chance to discover a new passion.
What do you think about gifted education?
I have been fortunate to work with gifted students in both Virginia and in the United Kingdom. Additionally, I have an teaching endorsement in gifted education. That said, one of my favorite parts of gifted ed is talking with gifted kids. The conversations are never boring and I always learn something new or get to look at something from a completely different perspective!
Given infinite supplies and opportunities, what sort of class would you teach?
I'd love to teach a class on Medieval Mathematics and English Cathedrals: What mathematics did the medieval masons and builders use? How did they design and build these amazing structures without using the modern tools we rely on so heavily today?
Of course, we would have to visit one or two of these in England during each session!
What's your biggest pet peeve?
Drivers who don't stop for pedestrians in crosswalks.
No comments:
Post a Comment