Joby McGowan - Kindergarten Teacher

Location: Lakeridge Elementary

Philosophy: Starting kindergarten can be an overwhelming experience for five-year-olds. “When kids are scared,” Joby explains, “I attempt to validate their concern rather than try to solve it for them. Just knowing someone gets how you feel is all it takes to have clearer vision. It calms you. If someone isn’t validated they don’t hear what else you say.” Joby has found that validation helps to comfort parents, as well. “When parents register concerns they are only advocating for their child. Knowing there are other adults who attempt to understand their child gives them a sense of peace. My job is about helping people feel connected. Both kids and adults need that.”

Typical day: “I roll in and whip up the rigor.” says Joby. “Then I welcome students, facilitate problem-solving, teach kids how to read, write, and be mathematicians. They have a snack. We read some great children’s literature, and I high-five them on the way out the door so we can do it again the next day.”

Best part of the job: Joby says there are three best parts of the job: 1) Watching kids make connections to the real world, 2) Watching a classroom community develop, 3) Teaching kids how to look at situations from more than one perspective. “Seeing other perspectives wasn’t my strong suit during my early years in the district,” he admits. “I appreciate that I was given an opportunity to grow and improve in that department. Oddly enough, teaching kids to be flexible in their thinking is the most enjoyable part of the job for me now, though I still have plenty of room for growth in that area. I need these kids more than they need me.”

Something people may not know: Joby was the homecoming king at his small Iowa high school.

Years in district: Joby has worked for MISD for nine years. He has taught first and second grades as well as kindergarten.

Outside interests: Joby has a glass fusing studio in his home. He makes trays, wind chimes and a variety of other things. He has even taught his students to fuse glass. “When you empower kids to be responsible they can handle it.” Joby also enjoys resort vacations in sunny destinations. “My favorite trip was to Cancun,” he says. “I love eating out and ordering Crème Brule for dessert before dinner. You sit by the pool, you don’t have to clean up, and who doesn’t like to be waited on?” Joby lives in Greenlake.