Jonathan Mitchell’s Introduction EDU 650: Teaching, Learning and Leading in the 21 st Century Instructor: Richard Newman

Who is Jonathan Mitchell? Originally from Cedar Rapids, Iowa ◦ Currently live in Clinton, IA (a stones throw away from the Mississippi River) Started dating Natalia Lawson in 8 th grade Married Natalia on July 21, 2012 Interests  Traveling, studying religions, playing tennis

Professional Background & Experiences Student taught in an Advanced Placement classroom at an affluent high school Substitute taught for half a year in a city of 150,000+ Currently have taught Social Studies for 3 years at Clinton High School (see photo) Community of 27,000 Enrollment of 1,150 60% free/reduced lunches Currently coach the CHS Hip Hop Dance team Currently coach the CHS Boys Tennis team

Memory Lane I attended all public schools ◦ My elementary and middle schools recorded some of the highest standardized test scores in the city while having one of the lowest rates of poverty ◦ My high school was a larger school located on the industrial side of town with a diverse student population of approximately 1,700 students.

Lasting Impact One key experience during my schooling was on a field trip we took to another town’s theatre. The teacher explained to us that we represented—not only our school—but our entire community. She explained that today might be our guide’s only interaction with our community or someone from it so we better be good ambassadors. I’ve tried to convey that same sense of pride and wisdom into my students.

What’s Next? In the future, I’ll continue to establish roots at Clinton High School and in the community. I’d like to remain teaching general or co-taught classes—giving me the opportunity to impact more of our at-risk students. Furthermore, I’d love to have a permanent position as a mentor to beginning teachers. Obtaining a Master’s Degree in Culturally Responsive Education should assist in my efforts to ensure every student in my classroom is learning to their full ability. Also, the information learned should help me facilitate conversations with beginning teachers in an effort to mentor them.

FAVORITE QUOTE This quote is great for several reasons. First, the reader can feel Paul Brandt’s positive energy. Additionally, the quote encourages one to push their limitations. Lastly, its outside the box nature is exactly what we need as educators.