Matthew Wester

Describe your current teaching assignment:

Franklin Military Academy is a selective specialty school in the Richmond Public School District for grades 6-12. I am the science department head for the school and teach mainly biology to 9th and 10th grade students.

 

How did the Noyce program prepare you for this assignment?

The Noyce program helped instill in me the fundamental belief that all students can learn and achieve success in school, given the right support. It encouraged me to embrace innovation in the classroom, to not be afraid of failure, and to base my teaching practices in research and knowledge of my students.

 

In addition to teaching, are you exploring new areas in content, teaching strategies, leadership, etc.? If so, what areas and did the Noyce experience play a role?

One of the most important aspects of my Noyce experience was the guidance I received from my cooperating teacher, Ms. Morris. I have tried to pass that forward by regularly mentoring new teachers and coaching resident, pre-service teachers in my classroom through the RTR Richmond program.

 

Describe any highlights/special achievements during these beginning years of teaching:

I became a National Board Certified Teacher in 2018 in the area of Science (Biology) for Adolescence & Young Adulthood.

 

What has the Noyce program meant to you?

Noyce not only helped pay for my education to become a teacher, but helped inspire me to pursue a position in a high needs setting. I am deeply appreciate of its early influence and assistance in my teaching career.