It is a great joy to teach mathematics at The Anacapa School! The scheduling and small class size allow for relationships to build between students and teachers, and these have great benefits for learning. By being the student’s instructor for multiple years, the teacher gets to know each student’s learning style, to have first-hand knowledge of the material that has been covered, and to be aware of which material is the most challenging for which student. Now, in my third year at Anacapa, I have students from previous years and from a variety of math subjects. For example, two years ago I taught the entire ninth grade class in Algebra I, and last year I had five of these same students as sophomores in Algebra II. As we work together over the years, students gain confidence to work on new, more involved, and challenging concepts.
Another benefit in building relationships is that often the students have another class either concurrently or previously with the teacher in a subject area which isn’t related to math, so we can appreciate each other in diverse disciplines. I’m sure that you can appreciate how important this can be, especially for the student who has strengths in other areas but not necessarily in math, to know that I am personally aware of them as a whole human being, not just as a math student. This contributes to a comfort level that manifests itself in students’ being open to asking questions and seeking additional help—I see many students after school in informal tutoring sessions at the picnic tables behind the Rochin. (By the way, if your student isn’t participating in this and you think she/he might benefit, encourage them to stop by. I’m there practically every afternoon–except Friday—from 3 to 3:50!)
This year, Ryan Biornstad and Suzie Sichi are also teaching one math class each. Ryan is teaching Geometry for the third year, and Suzie is also teaching a section of Geometry. Their great personalities and teaching techniques round out Anacapa’s
math department. Ryan’s goal for his class is that the students add a host of new tools to their mathematical arsenals and be prepared to tackle any given situation in math or science. Should any of his students have fun during this process, then so be it! Suzie says that she is really enjoying the challenge of teaching geometry again: “I taught it for 17 years and then took off seven years, so I have the advantage this year of approaching the material with both experienced and fresh eyes. Plus, I find that math is a wonderful balance to the art and Italian classes that I teach.”
The atmosphere in math classes at Anacapa encourages students to ask questions, leading to the gaining of critical knowledge and analytical skills. I feel privileged to work with such fine students and families here, and I truly look forward to your children’s bright possibilities upon graduating with their education from our school.
~ ~ Bryan Anderson, Head of the Math Department