Teacher of the Month⼁Introducing Beth R.
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 Beth, whose interactive and hands-on lessons make her the perfect fit for both our online and in person students.
Beth (she/her/hers) graduated from Cornell University with a Ph.D. in Anthropology, specializing in historical archaeology. Before her career in academia, Beth taught middle school science and social studies in Crownpoint, New Mexico, on the Navajo Reservation, and earned an MA in Elementary Education from the University of New Mexico. She went on to teach college courses at Cornell University, The College at Brockport, SUNY, and University of California, Santa Cruz. At the Knight Institute of Writing in the Disciplines at Cornell University, she trained in methods of writing instruction for first-year college students. She finds true joy in helping students improve their writing skills. Beth believes that one-on-one instruction can be transformative for student success. In her work with elementary through college students, she has found that writing skills are dramatically improved with in-depth discussion, targeted questions, and a thoughtful, engaged reader. With Pacific Preparatory, Beth teaches all K-8 subjects, English, Science, and SAT prep. When Beth isn't teaching, she can be found dragging her two children to museums and historic sites throughout the Bay Area.
What do you enjoy most about teaching with Pacific Preparatory?
I love that we are able to take our time, not feel rushed! When working one-on-one, I have the confidence that we'll get through the material that we need to within plenty of time. We can add extra practice, or explore something that interests the students without worry about racing to the end. I feel more relaxed, the student feels more relaxed, and the learning is more authentic.
What has surprised you about teaching with Pacific Preparatory?
In other teaching jobs, planning and prepping for classes can be tiresome and stressful. Now that I get to know the student, and work with them so closely, planning is such a joy. It is so fun to find the materials that will fit the lesson perfectly. Sometimes I feel like a fairy godmother, sending a fun book or art material, or showing up to my in-person classes with the awesome supplies that perfectly fit the lesson.
What’s your favorite subject to teach and why?
My favorite classes to teach are history. I love finding the stories that the students connect with. I'm always so inspired after a student discussion in history where they understand the content, and also are able to draw parallels with their own lives or current events.
Beth, we and your students are so lucky to have you on our team! Congratulations on being our Teacher of the Month!