Schools
Parkway Teacher Plugs Students Back into School
Joel May, a teacher at Parkway School District's Alternative Discipline Center, said his personal philosophy helps him handle his job.
Creve Coeur Patch is taking an ongoing look at "Alternatives in Education." We're talking to the people closest to Parkway School District's six alternative programs. We asked Joel May, a teacher at the Alternative Discipline Center, a few questions. The Alternative Discipline Center provides suspended students with an opportunity to stay on top of their classwork and keep learning.
Patch: What is your educational background?
Joel May: I have an undergraduate degree in English and a graduate degree in education, both from Missouri Baptist University.
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Patch: How has your education and life experience prepared you for your job as an Alternative Discipline Center teacher?
May: A number of things. I considered the ministry as a career, and I wanted to work with youth. I finally chose teaching and am working with at-risk youth. My personal philosophy plays a part in my ability to handle this job. Many of these students have had a tough life and seem to be written off by many people. I don't believe that. I believe that every person has worth.
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Patch: How are you able to teach effectively with students of varying ages, skill levels and behavior issues?
May: It can be difficult, but as a teacher you are taught to differentiate. I work to understand differences in each student. Who they are and what they need.
Patch: Do you have a method or style that works best for you and your students?
May: I try to focus each time I work with a student. I tell myself each day that I have the skills and resources to teach these children. Sometimes I have to switch modes, but if you care, you learn how to approach the student and what works for them. You can help them.
Patch: You mentioned resources. Can you expand on that comment?
May: We have amazing people in this program. Our director, Michael Barolak, and fellow teachers meet regularly to discuss our students. The program is intense, and our staff works together to support each other and the students.
Patch: You've been a teacher for five years; three years as an Alternative Discipline Center teacher. How do you feel about the job now that you have some experience?
May: It's an awesome job. It's a great feeling to reach a student, get them plugged back in to school. I get to see the rewards immediately.