About

Who am I?
For the last 5 years, I've taught students English at an alternative school in the city of brotherly love. It is my passion and I can't imagine doing anything else. I am originally from Pittsburgh, but came to Philly by way from Vermont where I did my undergraduate work at a small liberal arts college.  I am a "traditionally prepared" teacher, who student taught under a truly masterful teacher in rural Vermont. I quickly learned that teaching is more art than science. 

I am a firm supporter of public education and I think that a truly democratic school system, though far from the norm in America, is crucial to achieving equality. I believe in teacher leadership, equitable resourcing, and social justice in schools. 

Beyond the classroom, I am an amateur/ aspiring chef, washed-up football player, voracious reader, struggling runner, and doting fiance to Philly Teacher Woman. 

Why this blog?
 

I didn’t call myself anything. I was more than a teacher. And less. In the high school classroom you are a drill sergeant, a rabbi, a shoulder to cry on, a disciplinarian, a singer, a low level scholar, a clerk, a referee, a clown, a counselor, a dress-code enforcer, a conductor, an apologist, a philosopher, a collaborator, a tap dancer, a traffic cop, a priest, a mother-father-brother-sister-uncle-aunt, a bookkeeper, a critic, a psychologist, the last straw.

- Frank McCourt, Teacher Man