How does the APH teaching philosophy look in your classroom?
Collaboration is a key to success and growth in the mathematical field. In my classroom, students come together to discuss challenging, real-world issues that they will face in their day-to-day lives. I help students develop their abilities to think abstractly about the math problems, and then take these abstract ways of problem-solving and critical thinking and apply them to their lives. With a redefined focus on what it means to be mathematically literate, my goal is to have mathematical ideas to not only make sense to students but to also engage them in the process.
What excites you about The Academy at Penguin Hall?
The most exciting thing about APH is the student-to-teacher ratio. We have all seen classes of 30+ students, and know that some students can fall through the cracks and others can be left wanting more. With the smaller classes, I am able to tailor my class to both students who need additional support and students who need more challenge, making each student’s high school experience a valuable one.
Share something interesting about yourself.
One of the biggest joys in my life comes from listening and creating music. I’ve been playing music since I was very young, starting with drum lessons, and I can now (partially) play the piano, synthesizers, drums, drum machines, the bass guitar, as well as sing. This passion grew when I went to college and was able to spend many hours listening and creating music with some of my best friends. My favorite bands are Daft Punk, Gorillaz, Pink Floyd, and Air.
David Swan is a faculty member in the Integrated Science department. He teaches Integrated Science and Physics as well as Honors versions of those courses. David has a BS in Mathematics with studies in Education and Physics from Salem State University.