An Interview With Ryan Andress - Mathematics

What is your position at ASPV?

Math Teacher

What is your College Degree?

B.Ed. and B.Eng. in Math & Science (Physics) from Carleton University in Ottawa, Canada

Why is math so important in life?

Math is needed for so many professions (construction, finance, engineering, etc) and for day-to-day functioning. However, perhaps more importantly, mathematics is about learning a process for problem-solving and training your brain to think in a manner that will help you figure things out.

What qualities are required to be a good Math Teacher ?

Patience, humour, and the ability to relate in-class concepts to real-life application.

In your experience as a Math Teacher, what would you recommend to a student who has trouble with math?

I would always recommend to get one-on-one help. Never think “I’m not a math person” or “I just can’t do math”. Sometimes it just takes time, patience, and a different perspective.

What level of math do you teach at ASPV?

I teach grade 9-12

As a Math Teacher do you have all the equipment necessary to teach math to the students?

Absolutely. All that is required is a teacher who cares and students who are willing to learn. But ASPV has available all the new technology and traditional technology that I require.

Are you certified by any association?

I am an Ontario/Canada Certified Teacher (OCT).

Have you ever participated in a math competition with your students in Canada?

I have not other than encouraging students to take the challenge.

Talk to me about your experience as a math teacher?

My experience as a math teacher has been fantastic. I love the opportunity to challenge the stronger students to excel beyond their expectations, and to help students who think “they aren’t math people” to gain confidence and succeed in the subject. I also enjoy bringing life expereince, as well as my experience as an engineer into the classroom with real-life applications.

Do you have a special technique to teach math?

Not really. I just like to be myself and bring my personality into the classroom. I like to learn about all my students and build a rapport with them – to learn what makes them tick, what motivates them, what’s their backstory. I like to have fun with school as much as possible while also taking care of buisness.

Why did you decide to teach Math at ASPV?

Mr. Selitzer sold me on ASPV. The educational philosophy of the school seemed to be in line with my own. The way he discribed the staff, students, the community and Vallarta really sounded great to me. So far my time here has exceded expectations.

Tell me the reasons that having teachers on line 24 hours is important for students, especially in math?

If a student asks for help I’ll never turn them away without trying to help them one way or another.

Is there any academic difference between schools in Canada compare to ASPV?

I’m new here and have yet to go through this curriculum. However, there does not appear to be any discernible difference between the two, other than certain topics being in different orders. That being said, every school in Canada is different in many ways. I’m sure the same can be said here in Mexico.

What is your favorite Hobby?

Traveling, basket ball, painting, sketcking, reading and playing guitar.