Then, in 2007, he participated in an International Space Academy and trained like an astronaut for two weeks and simulated missions.
The Today’s Pulse found out more about the Indianapolis native, who fell in love with Cincinnati while in a college.
Q: What has been your educational journey?
A: I earned my bachelor's degree in education from Xavier University, a master's degree from Miami University and my administrative licensure from the University of Cincinnati. Upon graduation from Xavier, I taught for two years in Forest Hills Local School District and then in Princeton City Schools for 15 years, mostly as a junior high science teacher. This is my first year in Lakota.
Q: Why did you become an educator?
A: At the end of my junior year of high school, I had determined to pursue a degree in Chemistry and had even declared it as my major upon registration at Xavier.
However, during my senior year I worked as a mentor and tutor with students from our district’s elementary schools. In helping young people I found a passion and purpose that I never experienced in a chemistry lab or any other pursuit. Thus, I changed my major to education and have never regretted that decision.
Q: What do you enjoy most?
A: During my years as a teacher, I truly enjoyed being the difference in young people's lives. I love science and enjoyed teaching the content, bringing it alive within the classroom. However, being a positive and consistent role model for students from a wide array of backgrounds was perhaps the most rewarding element of my work.
This past year I decided to bring my knowledge and experience into administration, hoping to help teachers and faculty to sustain and grow a positive school culture of high expectations. Lakota has a great staff and culture of excellence that I am blessed to join.
Q: What is the biggest challenge facing educators today?
A: The greatest challenge facing educators today is to continually adapt our best practices to meet the needs of a changing world. 21st century careers require different skills than those of the past, and we must provide training that helps students prepare for them.
With each passing generation, students are coming to us with different learning styles and ways to interact with each other and their world. Our multigenerational staff must also work to keep our methods relevant and impactful with these changes.
Q: What is your educational philosophy?
A: My teaching philosophy centers upon a foundation that all students can learn and achieve. While students come to us with a wide-array of needs, I always stress having a growth mindset.
The key to effective teaching is meeting students where they are and growing them. Thus, multiple strategies must be used, mixing whole group, small group and independent learning that incorporate technology and real world application.
Q: What is a favorite memory from your career?
A: I have many wonderful memories. My favorite was being invited by a student to attend a Cincinnati Reds Men of Character conference, in which he sang the National Anthem. Prior to the conference, I was able to attend a meet-and-greet with other invited guests, in which we met several current and former Cincinnati Reds players. I felt honored that this student invited me to such as great event and was proud of his great work in singing.
Q: What are some of your hobbies?
A: I am an avid sports fan with my television and radio usually tuned to sports talk or a game. My son and I also both collect sports cards and memorabilia, enjoying card conventions and seeking autographs at sporting events.
Contact this contributing writer at lisa.knodel@gmail.com.
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