Meet Owen
Owen teaches Social Studies at Spotswood High School in Rockingham County, VA, which is a rural county surrounding a quickly growing mid-sized city. Owen has taught VA/US History for honors students as well as World History II, World Geography, and Economics/Personal Finance. Owen is currently in his 8th year of teaching, and throughout his teaching career, he has completed his M. Ed in Instructional Technology and completed work to become Nationally Board Certified.
If a coworker or administrator were to describe you, what are five words or phrases they would use?
Organized
Thoughtful
Driven
Hard Working
Life-Long Learner
How did you end up in Education?
Originally, I had gone to College for a degree in Business Administration. But, after a year of sitting through classes I was only half interested in, I was pushed to think about History/Education as a career. Needless to say I jumped all in and have never looked back.
Motivation Monday
What is something you do to build positive relationships with your students?
Relationships are the foundation of teaching. Therefore at the beginning of the year I am extremely intentional in asking questions about my students, finding out their interests, hobbies, and learning the correct pronunciation of their name. These connections prove immensely helpful throughout the year to help motivate students and keep content interesting. I can't imagine teaching without having these relationships!
What steps do you take to make your classroom equitable and inclusive for all of your students?
I believe in making sure that all of students feel safe and comfortable in the classroom. One way that I do this with students is through honesty and transparency. When it comes times to discuss difficult topics I often share my own struggles with the topic to let students know that you don't always have to have things "figured out". This really pushes students to share and be open to new and diverse perspectives.
What is a professional goal you have for yourself this year? Or a goal you’ve had for yourself in the past?
During the 2019-2020 school year I decided to pursue a National Board Certification. This certification is one of the highest marks a teacher can receive and I chose to do this because I believed the process would push me to be a better teacher and instructional leader in my school. I am eagerly awaiting results this December!
What is a book that you’ve read that has inspired you?
"Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria"
by Beverly Tatum
What is one piece of advice you have for new teachers or those thinking about becoming teachers?
Be patient with yourself. There are so many ups and downs in education that you have to remember to give yourself grace. No one is expecting you to be perfect. See every situation as a learning experience and give yourself room to grow.
What is one quote or phrase you live by?
"If you stand for nothing, you will fall for anything" - Alexander Hamilton