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Brandon Schwartz

Left to right: Greg Stickel, Principal of Duval Charter School at Coastal, Brandon Schwartz, November Bright Spots winner, and Adam Cross, North Florida Regional Director.

Duval Charter School at Coastal

On Monday, December 10th, Brandon Schwartz, a fifth grade science teacher at Duval Charter School at Coastal, was awarded the CSUSA Bright Spots award for the month of November. Mr. Schwartz received the award based on his submission, which highlighted the 21st century learning environment he has created in his classroom.

When speaking about his classroom, Mr. Schwartz said, “From the beginning of the year, I wanted to create a classroom culture of student ownership, intrinsic motivation, and most importantly, a place where students feel safe to explore their love of science." He routinely seeks out student feedback on lessons, ensuring that the lessons are not only standards-based, but also play to their interests.

In each lesson, Mr. Schwartz strives to incorporate the 4 C's of 21st Century Learning-- Critical Thinking, Communication, Collaboration, and Creativity. Examples of lessons in his class so far this year have included having an ichthyologist (a scientist who studies fish) and geologist speak and work with his students via Skype in the Classroom. During this lesson, the scientist was able to provide examples of the work she is currently doing, and how she utilizes the scientific method in her field of work.

Not only does Mr. Schwartz strive to facilitate a 21st Century Learning environment where the students are in the drivers seat, he also aims to foster and nurture meaningful relationships with his students. "I don't really know how to express my love for these kids other than working hard for them each day. When I wake up in the morning the first thing I think of is my kids and how they are going to do that day. The last thing I think of before bed is my kids. Hoping my lessons will be enjoyed and that they will learn something new and be excited by the science! Because of this, I make sure that I work as hard as I can for them."

I want my classroom to be student led. Developed by students, for students. I want to simply be a facilitator to push these kids beyond their comfort zone.

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