Mr. Kitchens

Mr. Kitchens is the math teacher for:

Algebra 2
Geometry
Algebra 1.5
Geometry Lab

INTRO Part 1
Greetings!

I’m Mr. Kitchens, the new math teacher on the GBWA block. I’m writing this post to introduce myself, and to give you a little insight into why I’m excited to be at GBWA. I also share some of the key success factors you’ll want to pay special attention to now and while you’re in the program.

My philosophy on life is based on the premise that all individuals deserve consideration and an equal opportunity for respect, quality living, happiness, hope, and achievement. In my eyes, a great education is a large part of making this happen, and why teaching is so important. As a teacher at GBWA it is my priority to hold high expectations for you so you can identify or further develop your talents, as well as diversify your skills by learning in subjects you might not necessarily think you like or are good at. If you work smart and hard in our program, you will begin to build powerful advantages that will make huge contributions for your successful and promising future. You already have an advantage: the GBWA staff and I are here to help!

More to come, so stay tuned...

INTRO Part 2

So, why am I here? Quite simply, because you’re important and I believe I can make a positive difference to help you achieve your goals. If you don’t have clear goals yet, don’t worry. There is a little time for that. For now, let me tell you why I believe I can help you.

• My official resume shows that I’ve been a successful Air Force officer and instructor, Army soldier, American Airlines intern, and program manager. These experiences have given me a pretty good idea about the professional world you will hopefully enter one of these years in the not-so-distant future. Yet, I’ve also flipped burgers, scrubbed pots, worked for city Parks & Recreation and Vector Control departments, waited tables, moved furniture, as well as held many other jobs. All of these experiences contributed to who I am, what I learned, and what I thought I could become. Most important, to be successful I had to be dedicated, work hard, and be smart about taking advantage of opportunities, some obvious and some I had to work a little to uncover. I’ve also had many opportunities to collaborate with a variety of different, interesting, and wonderful individuals. This certainly made for very exciting and interesting experiences (for instance, going to school with foreign officers from Brazil, Spain, and Turkey). For all of these reasons and more, I’m very motivated to be working in the often unpredictable world of education, and with individuals such as yourself.
• I understand the challenge of being new to a school and trying to figure everything out. I was in 11 schools before graduating high school...because of my father’s profession, we moved a little bit. Change can provide several challenges, but we can overcome these challenges. The staff and I can help you with this.
• Most important, I really enjoy helping others discover and develop their abilities and talents. You will undoubtedly come across obstacles--some more difficult than others--but, I’m very confident if you use your talents, actively seek help when you need to, and continue to persist at your school work you will be very successful here.

INTRO PART 3

The unique approach to schooling employed by the Gresham-Barlow Web Academy is convenient, fascinating, and it provides a wonderful opportunity for you to gain that critical credential called the High School Diploma! As a new educator on the GBWA staff, I feel fortunate to be partnering with a very professional team working to help YOU set and achieve your personal, professional, and academic goals. 

As an education partner, here’s what I’m prepared to do: 

• Help you consider and develop solutions and skills as you build a solid math education
• Be available to listen to what’s on your mind so you can voice questions, concerns, and ideas
• Along with your mentor, help you brainstorm (generate ideas), plan, and achieve personal, professional, and academic goals

Now, did you notice anything significant that I didn’t say? That’s right, I’m not here to complete your work or earn your grades. Only you can do that. But, I assure you that if you engage the program and consistently progress beginning on Day 1, put in a good effort each day, and keep me and other key staff (e.g., mentor) informed when you have any issues (or successes – I want to hear those too!), you will achieve your goals. 

I can’t think of a better time to get started – see you in a virtual room or at GBWA soon!

Mr. Kitchens