Christian Buzzerd

Having taught 2nd grade for five years and 6th grade for five years, I have experience with both elementary and middle school students, as well as teaching in both a self-contained and departmentalized classroom. During this time, I have gradually taken on more responsibilities and leadership roles, including grade level chairperson, mathematics educational coordinator, and Common Core Standards Team math leader. I have had the opportunity to share my expertise and experience to help fellow and future teachers by being a PLC mentor for University of Maryland student teachers, and being a Job-Alike mentor for first- and second-year teachers. I am continuing to learn and grow as both an educator and leader by pursuing National Board Certification, and Administration Certification. My teaching style is based on student discovery, as opposed to teacher lecture. After ten years of teaching, I have learned that students learn best when they feel that they are uncovering and forming concepts and ideas themselves, giving them ownership of their learning. My classroom management style is based on high expectations of performance and character. Through open and consistent contact, parents know that we all want their child to succeed, and that I am willing to work with them to ensure success. It is because of these strategies and philosophies that I have been able to consistently raise 6th grade student test scores year after year.