Introduce yourself and the courses you teach. What, in your opinion, is the best thing about being a teacher at Centennial Academy?
Ms. Fiori Head of the Mathematics department, teach grade 10 Math Science option and grade 11 Math CST option. The best thing about working at Centennial is the learning experience. We use many different strategies and are encouraged to try to different things to see what works. Also, the collaboration between teachers. We work as a unit across all subjects.[/row]
What are the top 3 things that you think make Centennial Academy unique?
- The way we break down the material so the students have a model to follow.
- The different UDL strategies that we use in class.
- A study hall period to allow students the opportunity to complete their homework during the school day and seek out teacher support.
Tell me about one of your favorite teaching memories/story?
One of my favorite memories is the grade 11 New York trip. It was great to see how the students interact outside of the classroom. The students really enjoyed the Broadway shows that we saw and ended up doing karaoke on the bus.
Students always seem hesitant at the beginning of the trip, but by the end of the trip they are grateful that they went on the trip.
What do you think your students like the most about you?
I think what the students like most about me is that I am willing to help them at lunch, afterschool or whenever they may need to provide extra support.
Describe a typical classroom experience or a typical day at Centennial?
A typical classroom experience would be the students come in there is some sort of warm up activity on their desks to get them started for the day. We then fill in the notes and I explain the concepts that we are learning for the day. I “cold call” on students to give their input and answer any questions I may have. Students ask questions on things that are unclear or confusing. Once the notes portion of the lesson is complete, the students work on individual work with a model shown at the front of the class. There are times where students can work in groups. When the lesson is complete, the students pack up their math material and get ready for their next class.
Describe in your own words the Centennial Academy Approach and how UDL really works.
At Centennial we do not try to fit the students into a box. We provide strategies in the classroom that would benefit all learners. For example, in math, we break down the procedure on how to answer a problem which is very helpful for those that struggle with knowing the correct steps and for those that are stronger it ensures they are on the right path. We use online tools so students can view and review notes and PowerPoints at a pace that works for them.