Patricia McCarthy teaches Physical Education, Health, Dance and is a Coach. She has over 30 years experience — and she’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 love helping others and interacting in a fun, relaxed manner. It is the greatest gift ever to see a student’s face light up when they get it and understand your message/lesson.
What is the funniest moment you’ve experienced a teacher?
There are too many to choose from. However, there are times when a student might respond in a somewhat inappropriate manner, but the response is sooooo very funny that I would have to hide my face behind my clipboard and laugh my head off. [Then] dropping my clipboard back down and telling the student that the response was not appropriate.
How has the last year affected your students and your teaching approach?
Some students have done really well and others not so well. One good thing that has come out of this pandemic within the world of in-person teaching/learning is that it has eliminated the “in your face” bullying that goes with the in-person learning environment. This has made it so much easier and comfortable for students that were being bullied to open up and learn without criticism and leaving the bullies with no opportunity to bully!
I tried so hard to stop bullying in the public schools but found little support from the administration and Board. Teachers are also bullied with no support or help. As to my approach to the presentation of materials — I have had to be more creative!
What’s a creative solution you use to keep kids engaged or motivated during COVID?
Connect with the students in a positive manner that they can relate to! As to masks — it is a fashion statement! An accessory to your personality!
Most students also love technology, so it is a manner of finding a way for each student to connect their interests to the lesson and to the technology.
I find that teaching is like working in the sales department. You are attempting to sell students a lesson of information. So, find an area of interest with students that they can relate to and connect to the lesson.
What resources do you like to use in the classroom or in teaching remotely?
I am teaching only remotely at this time therefore it would be my computer to tablet. However, I do like the use of music in my lessons! I also like to assign projects for students to research certain issues, which puts the student in control. Then we meet back, and share and discuss our findings.
What is your experience with bullying in the classroom?
I myself have endured a lifetime of bullying so some say I am an expert on the matter. I wrote a three-part article for a newspaper a few years back on the topic at the request of some adults in the area. My policy is that if you see it, you must intervene and support the victim publicly, as well as make sure that the bully is held accountable.
Bullying is a form of abuse and it is a form of instability. These students, and adults, need counseling to get to the reason why the bully is attacking and help to resolve their issues. It is not about the victim. Usually, the victim is seen by the bully as having something they do not have. The insecurities and jealousies of the bully come out onto their victim.
How do you gauge if your students are succeeding?
On each student’s personal improvement. Not in comparison to other students or a generic learning scale!
What’s a fun thing students don’t know about you?
That I love traveling to other countries and learning the culture and lifestyles of other people around the world. Also, I have been credentialed in other countries as well as several states. I like learning and being involved in other careers besides teaching!
What is your primary educational goal, and what are you most proud of as a teacher?
My primary educational goal is for students to be the best version of themselves as they can be! Kind, caring, helpful to others, selfless, healthy, and smart in whatever area they choose. I want my students to do the things they love to do in life.
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.
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