Welcome to the Forum Faculty Podcast, a podcast featuring conversations with teaching faculty of The Heights School, as well as friends of The Heights Forum. In...
A Doctor, a Lawyer, and a Cop Walk Into a Boys School
In this episode of the Forum Faculty Podcast, middle school teacher Rob Liotta, upper school teacher Mark Grannis, and lower school teacher Josue Zelaya—discuss their transitions from careers in policing, law, and medicine, respectively, to teaching. They share their backstories, motivations for changing careers, and how their previous experiences shape their approach in the classroom. The discussion also dives into the skills they bring into teaching and advice for those considering a similar career switch. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Teacher Podcast 00:10 Meet the Guests: Transitioning to Teaching 01:11 Josue Zelaya: From Police Officer to Teacher 03:16 Mark Grannis: From Lawyer to Teacher 04:37 Rob Liotta: From Flight Surgeon to Teacher 06:57 Skills and Experiences Brought to the Classroom 16:06 Life Lessons and Impact on Students 30:46 Advice for Aspiring Teachers 37:54 Closing Thoughts and Reflections
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The Homework Problem
In this episode, Lower School teacher, Elias Naegele, and Upper School teachers, Joel Sellier, and Michael Hude, engage in a comprehensive debate on the role and effectiveness of homework in student development. They explore differing viewpoints on the necessity of homework, its impact on motivation and resilience, and how it balances with classroom work and personal time. The conversation delves into the merits of fostering independent learning versus traditional rote assignments, the importance of tailored and thoughtful homework, and strategies for incorporating creativity and virtue-building into school routines. The discussion concludes by considering the broader implications for educational philosophy and practical classroom approaches. Chapters 00:17 Intro 02:04 What is "Homework?" 06:19 Reading vs. Written Work 07:47 The "No Homework" Argument 12:26 Homework as an Exercise in Self-Discipline 16:08 How Much Time Does a Student Have? 21:40 Does Homework Even Work? 23:09 Homework Time 25:03 Are Textbooks beneficial? 27:22 Maybe We Should Hold onto Homework 29:02 Elias is Reminded of Seabiscuit 30:34 Change from Family Centered into School Centered Mentality 32:12 Appropriate Homework Loads for Students 33:47 Unassigned Leisure Reading 35:33 Joel Asside and Seventh Grade Religion 37:09 Memory Work 39:00 Memorization 39:50 Homework must be Assigned Well 42:31 Other Responsibilities and the Juggling Act 43:10 Does Homework make one Pretend or Love their work 46:42 The Overworked Student is the Exception, Not the Rule 51:16 Homework as Training in Virtue
Welcome to the Forum Faculty Podcast, a podcast featuring conversations with teaching faculty of The Heights School, as well as friends of The Heights Forum. In each episode, we share the ideas, stories, and challenges rising out of the experience of teaching in the 21st century. These recordings are an expansion of chats and conversations had by teachers in the hallways, lounge, and offices of school, and we hope that they are not only enriching, but also an invitation to join in the discussion!
New Zealand