Seventh Graders Find Out What Tech Ed Is All About

By Susan Coney

Newtown Middle School technology teacher Don Ramsey got acquainted with a new group of seventh graders as the start of the school year began last week. Mr Ramsey enthusiastically welcomed the students to his classroom explaining to them that tech ed encompasses all facets of learning and exploration related to the real world including the study of energy, manufacturing, transportation, communication, and construction.

 He said, “In tech ed class we bring math and science alive!”

Mr Ramsey spent a good part of the first class introducing his students to many of the visual gadgets displayed throughout his classroom. He encouraged volunteers to come forward and participate in trying out many of the kid-friendly objects that are available in the tech ed program, all the while instructing them on the safety rules so important in a hands-on environment.

In addition to welcoming a new group of seventh graders to the school, Mr Ramsey also introduced his student teacher, Sam Buck, from Central Connecticut State University. Mr Buck comes to teaching with a wide range of previous work experience. Mr Ramsey emphasized to the students that Mr Buck brings with him all the latest in ideas and technologies from the university while more seasoned teachers such as himself are the backbone of teaching because they know the tried and true methods.

Mr Ramsey’s message to the new group of seventh graders entering the middle school was simple: “We want to promote the joy of lifelong learning by helping you discover what your interests and strengths are.” He went on to tell his new students that every one is gifted in a different way. “It’s not how smart you are, it’s how you are smart,” Mr Ramsey said.