In this episode, we reflect on strategies to optimize the school experience for introverted and extroverted students by sitting down with two teachers in the field of gifted education. Jim Leesch (Middle School Math) and Jeff Westbrook (1-8 Drama) share their insights about accommodating different personality traits.

Jim has over 30 years of experience teaching children in math, science, and drama. Seeing students in a wide variety of contexts has given him insight into the ways that teachers can learn about each student as a whole child. Working in independent schools for most of his career, Jim values this approach to teaching and learning. By ensuring that students feel seen, known, and valued, teachers provide the best possible environment for their learning and growth. Getting to work with exceptional children has enriched his appreciation for the wide variety of talents and gifts that children bring to school, and he is passionate about helping them see the fullness of their potential across all parts of their lives.

Jeff Westbrook, currently a 1-8 Drama Teacher. One of the things he prioritizes is having every student participate in the drama program, regardless of natural talent, experience, or even interest. Meaning that the students who have the potential to gain the most from theatre experiences might be the ones who would not take drama as an elective. Jeff has 34 years of teaching experience in elementary and high schools. Because Jeff is not focused simply on “the drama gang,” he has developed interest and insight into exploring how to teach students with varying personalities and proclivities, including those for whom drama and performance is not an immediate or obvious fit. Jeff’s curricular focus is on cultivating student work in playwriting, acting, and design, and he looks for opportunities to give students so that all of them find an area in which they can flourish.

Co-Hosts: Angel Van Howe and Meghan McCarthy

Co-Producers: Adam Metcalf and Jeff Westbrook

Original Music by Adam G-F

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