The Sage Informer

Every year, students at MHS experience a range of teaching styles, as each teacher brings a unique approach to his or her classroom. 

Some teachers, like English teacher, Dr. Hendrickson, create a student-centered environment, while others, like math teacher, Mrs. Stetson, like a more structured and straightforward method. These teaching styles provide students with varied ways to engage and learn.

Dr. Hendrickson described her teaching style as highly student-focused. “I don’t like to lecture a lot because I want my classes to be as student-centered as possible,” she explained. “I would describe my role as more of a facilitator than a director of learning.” 

Dr. Hendrickson values discussion-based activities, particularly Socratic Seminars, which allow students to express their own ideas and build knowledge. “Students learn best when they’re engaged, and a teaching style focused on student interest, collaboration, and discovery helps facilitate this engagement,” she added. To encourage deeper understanding, she also has students take on the role of “teacher” by researching and presenting topics to the class.

Meanwhile, Mrs. Stetson has developed a style she calls “straight to the point.” She aims to make math engaging for students who may not naturally enjoy the subject. “I love math but I know most of my students do not , so I have to find a way to keep them engaged,” she explained. “I try to bring the energy each day because if I show some excitement my hope is that they do too.” 

Mrs. Stetson rarely assigns homework, instead giving students daily class time to work on problems. She explained, “I also don’t grade their homework, which is a good thing and a bad thing. Now that I don’t grade, I feel like kids are more willing to try the worksheet because they don’t get penalized if it’s wrong.”

To ensure understanding, both teachers use creative methods connected to their subjects. Dr. Hendrickson uses models and examples, creating a classroom environment where students feel comfortable asking questions. Mrs. Stetson, on the other hand, uses memorable tricks to help students remember mathematical concepts. She shared one example surely many of her students may recognize: “When 0 is on top it’s still zero, BUT when 0 is UNDer, it’s undefined (UND).”

Each teacher’s unique approach provides students at MHS with the chance to experience a variety of learning styles, whether through active discussion or focused, energetic instruction. Dr. Hendrickson and Mrs. Stetson, as well as the many other teachers in the building, demonstrate how diverse teaching styles can meet the different needs of their students, as well as prepare them for life after high school.

Braxton Tharp, Staff Writer

thabr25@sages.us