Glenn Leibel teaches ELA (English Language Arts), Math, Science and Physical Education. He has 11 years experience, a Masters in Education — and he’s one of the Teachers We Love in 2021. You can learn more about her in the interview below, and at The Teacher Marketplace.
Why did you become a teacher?
I have always had a love for teaching and coaching. I received my Master’s in Education in 2010 after working for the New York Times for almost 20 years. My favorite part of teaching is when you see a child gain confidence in themselves and hone their skills to be excellent students and classmates.
What is the funniest moment you’ve experienced a teacher?
The funniest moments are when the students laugh when I cannot get technology to work. Students are so natural with technology and fix my mistakes in no time flat.
How has the last year affected your students and your teaching approach?
The Covid months have been both challenging and energizing. Trying to come up with creative solutions is one of the biggest challenges. But when the plan works, it is invigorating!
What’s a creative solution you use to keep kids engaged or motivated during COVID?
I created a “Drop-In Center” for essential workers. Parents were able to drop off children at my center and we kept children engaged online and involved with their classes. We were also able to create a safe environment for children to socialize in. All children kept their masks on. We also created an online sports program. Very fun!
What resources do you like to use in the classroom or in teaching remotely?
We mostly use Google Classroom for our Drop-In Center. In my last camp, we used The Teacher Marketplace for tutoring — that was extremely successful.
What is your experience with bullying in the classroom?
I do not put up with bullying in my classroom. We sit down with each child and make sure that this does not happen.
How do you gauge if your students are succeeding?
Academic achievement is different for each student. If you see they have a love for learning, then you know you are succeeding.
What’s a fun thing students don’t know about you?
Most students do not know my age! They always ask and I always say that I am older than George Washington.
What’s the one book you wish all students would read?
The dictionary.
What is your primary educational goal, and what are you most proud of as a teacher?
Educational equality is my primary goal. We need to close the academic gap amongst socioeconomically challenged people and people of color. We need to provide remediation and accelerated learning opportunities. We can do this through the excellent teachers that The Teacher Marketplace provides.
Meet More Teachers We Love in 2021
“Teachers We Love” in 2021 is a co-production between Parentology and The Teacher Marketplace. To meet more amazing teachers, visit the Teachers We Love section.
Need a Tutor?
The Teacher Marketplace (TTM) is an amazing online resource to find a good tutor for your child, anywhere in the country, at a cost that fits any parent’s budget. Learn more about the company on Parentology.
