NAME:
Mr. Childs
SCHOOL:
First Avenue
CLASS:
7th Grade English
SCHOOL PHONE:
(626) 821-8362 extension 6218 E-mail address: pchilds@ausd.net
I taught at Dana Middle School for eleven years and transferred to
First Avenue in 2006. Teaching has been by far the best job I've ever
had! Previously, I taught for two years in a private school. I have
taught 7th and 8th grade English, plus 7th grade History. This is my second
career. Prior to teaching, I worked in marketing for a software company. I
grew up back in New Jersey and came out to California twenty years ago,
making my home in Pasadena. I enjoy hiking, biking, going to movies,
writing, and of course, reading.
We want a class where we can freely voice our opinions and express our
feelings about things that are important to us. We want learning
experiences that aren't limited by these four walls and only what's in
books; we want to use our own life experiences to shape what we create. We
want a place where we can play and be spontaneous, a place where we can use
our minds and our imaginations to explore the world. We want a class where
everyone participates, because they aren't afraid to be themselves. We want
to work together in groups to help each other learn. We want a class where
we have choices and where we can learn through a variety of means, including
art and drama. We want to play with words, write with style, and discuss
our ideas with each other. We want a class that challenges us, but one that
is also flexible in its use of time--one that gives us the time to ponder
and dream.
