A Little Something About Me!

As my students would say, "Mr. Burns is a Mathematical Boss!" This is definitely true, and I am one of many mathematical bosses at Chicago High School for the Arts. Currently, I teach geometry with ninth and tenth graders and this is my first full year of teaching. Over the last couple of years, I have been a teacher's assistant/math tutor. In addition, I taught ACT test prep for the Princeton Review. Originally, I started out as a Teach For America candidate, but didn't agree or feel comfortable with what I saw and felt as I completed the program, so I quit. I continue to do the same goal that TFA is attacking, but I am not part of the organization. I am in education because education has shaped and changed my life. I believe our education system is the greatest tool and resource one can use to become successful and get out of any situation that may be in. My job starts with opening my students' eyes to this idea of freedom through an education.

I love the challenge of teaching students that are trying to figure themselves out and who they are. To be part of their transformation is something I look forward to as a I mold the young minds of tomorrow. When I step into the classroom I am not just teaching geometry, I am teaching how to be a good citizen. I want my students to be socially comfortable and great at building relationships. I want my students to have an open mind and to respect the opinions of others no matter how different they may be. I feel we live in a society where others judge each other without critically thinking about the situation or setting the other person may be in. Lastly, I want all my students to have a growth mindset. I want each student persevere in every task, goal, or problem they encounter. I will know when I succeed when my students are making an impact in the world and striving for the very best at their highest potential.

On my off time, I am trying to learn new subjects and how to apply this knowledge to my everyday teaching. I love reading and I love playing various sports, especially volleyball. In addition, I love to visit museums like the Science and Industry Museum. Museums remind me up the success you could achieve if you work at a goal not stop. In 10 years, I want to make an impact in an aspect of everyday life.