Meet James German

By Lisa Leach, Director

James German is relatively new to the teaching staff, but has quickly proven to be one of TTU K-12's best instructors! He began teaching geometry for TTU K-12 in September 2017 but has been an educator for 33 years, first teaching secondary mathematics and later serving as a high school principal in several local districts.

James' success as an educator can be readily traced to his teaching philosophy.

"I believe in doing anything and everything I can to help students succeed. I want to be a guide, advocate, helper and facilitator of student success," he explained. "They are why we do what we do."

He fittingly illustrates the concept that online instruction can be conducted anywhere, as his responses for this interview were sent from Mexico while on a mission trip.

Although teaching online presents some challenges, James truly enjoys getting to know his students and looks for ways to do that. For example, he finds Checkpoint to be a valuable early tool for gaining insight into each student's situation and interests. His advice to students, whether online or in a traditional school setting, is that they will get out of the course what they put into it.

"Their heart may not love Geometry, but effort and a desire to do the best they can will provide a wider avenue for them toward success," he said.

Like all the outstanding TTU K-12 teachers, James is influencing his students in ways that extend past geometry concepts. He establishes a presence in his course that makes students feel supported and that creates an environment in which they can succeed.

 

TTU K-12 Instructor James German