Contact info: jbarthwerb@ms8brooklyn.org
What is your background and education?
I am originally from Nyack, New York, a small town in Rockland County. I graduated from Boston University, where I studied Hospitality Administration and Economics. In June, I moved back to New York to join the New York City Teaching Fellows. I am currently pursuing a master’s degree in the Art of Teaching from Relay GSE in Manhattan.
What made you decide to be a teacher?
Working in Massachusetts public schools. In November 2011, the public school system in Lawrence, Massachusetts, was, after years of failing to meet standards, basically put under state supervision and received additional funding to help meet standards in the future. I was brought in with a “Match Corps Fellowship” as a full-time in-school math tutor.
As one of the many turn-around initiatives in the district, I managed a caseload of fourteen ninth and tenth grade students. Students met with me in groups of 1-3 for 70 minutes 3-4 times per week as a second math class. Because the groups were so small, we were able to provide incredibly targeted instruction and students made great improvements.
Working with students in Lawrence was the most meaningful and invigorating experience of my life so far. I loved building relationships with my students and watching them grow. As the year went on they certainly honed their skills, but more importantly they developed more persistence to work through problems and a willingness to make mistakes. Watching student light up when a concept finally clicked was incredibly rewarding. I was especially lucky to be able to watch my students work through problems; it was fascinating to gain insight into how different people work through the exact same challenge. My experience with the Lawrence public schools fueled my passion for teaching and convinced me to return to my home in New York and join New York City Teaching Fellows program. I learned so much from the students at Lawrence High school and I am excited to continue learning and growing at PS8’s middle school!
What do you like to do outside of school?
Outside of school I enjoy biking, hiking and sailing. When the weather is less cooperative I also like to stay inside with board games or a good book.