Brett Algera, taking a kind of “slow game” approach to teaching
By Fran Harris
What’s one piece of advice you’d give someone considering becoming a teacher?
One piece of advice I was given was to, “dive in”. I went from a solitary life in a cubicle to standing in front of a classroom full of students, so there was quite the learning curve. I (sometimes literally) have to hold my breath and dive in. Whether it be a new (to me) lesson idea (we made volcanoes last year in Science class - what a mess), a new opportunity like Guitar Club, or even just seeking insight and advice from colleagues - I’ve not once regretted diving in.
How long have you been a teacher?
This is my third year teaching at the Warwick Valley Middle School. Previously I was a substitute teacher and held leave replacement positions at Golden Hill Elementary School in Florida, NY. Prior to that I spent eight years working in graphic design and computer programming.
Tell us about the past year – the good and the bad.
The good: I am amazed at what’s being accomplished by students amidst an unprecedented pandemic. I’m also impressed by the flexibility of the teaching staff and administration. The amount of technology being incorporated into lessons by teachers and used by students in such a short amount of time to make learning and teaching possible has been nothing short of amazing.
The bad: I miss seeing everyone’s face! It’s easy to let a list of “the bad” snowball out of control. But I guess when I really think about it, I really miss seeing smiling faces in school.
What motivates you?
I want to help. I want to be the best that I can be for the students, the school, the community, and for myself. Every day is a chance to be better and I’m lucky to be in this position and to have this opportunity. I could list a hundred people or things that motivate me but everything circles back to that.
What’s the secret to being a great teacher?
I wish I knew! I think I’m a little too new to teaching to have an answer here...I’ll have to ask a great teacher. A piece of advice I received from my mentor Carrie-Ann Greiner is to keep communicating. Communicate with students, parents, teachers, and administration.
Tell us about one of your best days on the job.
This is a tough question. I take a kind of “slow game” approach to teaching so I don’t have too many specific days that stand out but rather shifts in mentality that happened gradually over time. It’s always a goal to help students to believe a little more in themselves and get a glimpse of some of the things they’re able to accomplish. It’s always a great day when I see some of those small shifts. I’m learning that this takes time and a team of people working together.
If I had to give a specific answer it would be the Guitar Club concert of 2020. It was an incredible experience. The kids worked so hard to learn and perform their songs to a packed High School auditorium. It was surreal.
How do you spend your time when you’re not teaching?
When I’m not teaching I like to build things. My wife and I are currently making a chicken coop in our backyard.