Teacher Spotlight: Breanna Brown
Breanna Brown is a social studies teacher at Quest Forward High School (QFHS) in Omaha. We recently caught up with Breanna to learn about the strategies she uses to get students engaged in their learning.
How would you describe QFHS to someone who’s not familiar with it?
QFHS is a welcoming school for students of all educational backgrounds. The small class sizes are conducive to more one-on-one instruction than students would get at larger schools. And our Pathways Program ensures all of our students explore a variety of college and career pathways, practice communicating professionally, and gain experience managing personal finances.
Tell us about a time you gave students choices about what or how they learned in your class. Nearly every project is a chance for students to choose how to demonstrate their learning. Students can write papers, create art, give presentations, and even design websites that showcase their knowledge on a particular subject. We encourage students to tailor their learning experience to their unique interests and talents.
Tell me about some of their unique interests.
Students in world history were captivated by the women’s movement and political activism. They planned their own protests for causes that they felt passionate about. This project touches every student because they all have a cause or belief that is close to their hearts. Relevance is what helps students become invested in their learning, and being able to choose their causes really allows them to shine on this assignment.
What does active learning mean for you, in your classroom?
Active learning means that students are taking charge of their learning. They go beyond just learning the basics and actually apply their knowledge to the world outside of school through research and collaboration with peers.
What Opportunity Education resources help you promote active learning?
Opportunity Education has so many different resources that help teachers plan effective lessons. The resource library is easy to access and well-organized. My favorite is the Active Learning Daily Lesson Plan resource, which helps me ensure that all of my lessons have elements that promote engagement and active learning.
What accomplishment are you the most proud of since joining QFHS?
I am proud that my time at QFHS has been all about learning and growing as a teacher. I am respected as an educator and given many opportunities to sharpen my skills.