How does the APH teaching philosophy look in your classroom?
Teaching math to young people is much more than numbers and formulas. I show my students how to relate mathematics to the world at large and how the applications of the subject are endless. The students have been “doing math” since they were little, and I teach them that their previous knowledge is still relevant and integral to current and future classes. I also aim for them to leave my classroom with the understanding of the logic of material and with the curiosity to know more.
What excites you about The Academy at Penguin Hall?
APH is already doing so much, in so little time. The environment is full of learning and discussion, and students working together in the classroom. I enjoy how every block is a long block, so students have enough time to grasp a concept, practice it, and come back together to examine the meaning behind it.
Share something interesting about yourself.
I love arts and crafts and DIY projects. I enjoy making cards and gift tags for holiday/craft fairs. I also make oil paintings. Mathematics and art are linked!
Sarika Jain Patel earned her B.S. in Computer Science with a minor in Mathematics from Rutgers University and her M.S. in Applied Mathematics from the University of Washington. After working as a Software Engineer at Raytheon and GMO, Ms. Patel began teaching Math at Pingree School and later at local colleges, including Endicott College. Here at The Academy, she teaches multiple math classes, including Algebra 2, Calculus II, Mathematical Finance, Economics and Statistics.