To whom it may concern,

 

My name is Alex Gorton I am a graduate of Michigan State University with a Bachelor of Arts in interdisciplinary studies in social science: social science education and a Master of Arts in educational technology. I completed my student teaching at City Middle/High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan and am currently teaching U.S. History, World Geography, and AP Human Geography at DaVinci Academy of Science and the Arts in Ogden, Utah.

 

During my time at City Middle/High School and my courses at Michigan State University, I was able to learn new teaching strategies and pedagogy. In 2014 I accepted a job at DaVinci Academy where I am able to continue my growth as an educator. DaVinci Academy is an urban public charter school located near downtown Ogden, Utah.  Our student population varies from students with IEPs, gifted, lower and upper income, and children of Weber State University professors. I have learned how to help students from multiple backgrounds with access to multiple resources. DaVinci Academy is an advancement via individual determination (AVID) school and I have been trained in AVID teaching strategies and a member of the AVID site team since 2015. These strategies are proven to be effective teaching strategies with a focus on students gaining a degree after high school. In the classroom, I create student-centered lessons, differentiate my instruction and work with English language learners. Through teaching social studies, I am able to develop citizenship within the classroom and demonstrate how students have the ability to create changes in the school, community and the world.

 

Currently, at DaVinci Academy. I am part of the educational technology (Ed. Tech) committee and professional development (PD) committee. I have been in this role since 2017. As a group, we are able to implement new teaching strategies, technology guidelines and grow as a community. Through my involvement in the technology team and the PD committee, I have been able to introduce new teaching strategies ranging from technology, pedagogical, and content knowledge (TPACK), AVID, and universal design planning. By leading PD and being another available resource for teachers I am helping to shape the use and understanding of technology in the classroom. Through my involvement in both PD and Ed. Tech committee, my goal is to support teachers in the use of technology in the classroom and understand the affordances and constraints of technology. To make support and transitions easier for teachers, I bring new ideas and listening to concerns or complaints about current technology and I am a voice for teachers at our Ed. Tech meetings.

 

Outside of the classroom, I am involved in coaching three sports, lacrosse, basketball and cross country. I coach middle school basketball and high school cross country at DaVinci Academy and high school lacrosse at Weber High School.

 

I would enjoy the opportunity to speak with you in person and experience what your school has to offer. Please take a look at my resume, references and online portfolio for further information on my teaching experience.  I am willing to provide any additional information or documents upon request. I look forward to hearing you from in the near future.

 

Thank you for your consideration,

Alex Gorton