Teacher of the Month⼁Introducing Geena B.
At Pacific Preparatory, we are so lucky to work with the most thoughtful and inspiring instructors, all who bring lessons to life with engaging connections to student interests and their community. This month, we are pleased to celebrate Geena, whose creative approach to lesson planning draws in student engagement, curiosity, and, of course, learning!
Geena (she/her/hers) graduated from Rider University with B.A. in Elementary Education and a dual certification in early childhood education and psychology. After graduating, Geena spent 6 years as a classroom early elementary teacher. Geena approaches teaching by first getting to know her student’s interests and passions, and then crafting interactive lessons that encourage critical thinking and academic growth. Her favorite aspect of teaching is to spark creativity and a love of learning, all while developing the student’s academic and social skills. With Pacific Preparatory, she teaches all subjects K-5 with an emphasis on the early elementary grades. When she’s not teaching, Geena can be found reading, exploring the outdoors, baking and spending time with her husband and their three rescue animals.
What’s your favorite subject to teach and why?
My favorite subject to teach is definitely math. As a kid in school, math was the hardest subject for me. I didn't have trouble finding answers, however, I never understood why there was one "correct" way to solve a problem. This mindset was very frustrating to me as a learner because oftentimes the "correct" way to solve the problem wasn't the way I understood. When I first became a teacher, math was my least favorite subject to teach because of this. When I realized that math teaching evolved into why instead of how, I fell in love with math teaching and learning all over again! I love watching students take strategies I've taught them and choose what works best for them as a learner. It is so empowering for kids to be able to choose what works for their style of learning...it truly helps them take ownership of their thinking.
What do you enjoy most about teaching with Pacific Preparatory?
Where do I begin this impossibly long list? PacPrep has been a breath of fresh air for me and reinvigorated my love for teaching and learning. The way that Pac Prep truly values their staff is second to none. I always feel respected, listened to and appreciated. My favorite thing about teaching with PacPrep is how they've created a strong, supportive community in a virtual space that allows everyone to thrive. I am forever grateful that I found this wonderful school.
What is your favorite activity to do outside of teaching?
Most recently, my favorite things to do outside of teaching are reading, baking, knitting and spending time with my cats, dog, husband and family!
Geena, we and your students are so lucky to have you on our team! Congratulations on being our Teacher of the Month!