Drone operator. Sustainability expert. Cloud-computing engineer. App Developer. These are jobs that didn’t even exist a decade ago. “Sixty-five percent of children entering primary school will end up in jobs that don’t yet exist,” according to a 2017 report from the World Economic Forum. One of the main challenges of modern education is preparing students for a world where the only constant is change: That’s just another reason why Brother Rice is so blessed to have technology specialist and teacher Mr. Steve Parker on its staff. And yes, Mr. Parker also just happens to be Faculty Crusader of the Month for November 2018!
Mr. Parker, now in his third year at Brother Rice, looks around his classroom with pride, imagining the contributions his students will make to the future of technology. “Our Crusaders are moving full STEAM ahead!” remarks Mr. Parker, referring to continuous curricular improvements at Brother Rice that in recent years have placed a heightened emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math skills. As instructor of such classes as IT Essentials, Web Development and Code HS, Mr. Parker shares his invaluable expertise as he guides his students through the technological advancements of the 21st century. “In education, the end goal often isn’t the ‘end,’ but only a small measure of the lifelong journey of learning,” Mr. Parker states. “When students understand the importance of taking responsibility for their actions, they grow into the young men they will become. It’s so rewarding watching this small part of their journey.” Mr. Parker also teaches at the college level, so he always shares what professors expect in a post-secondary environment. “In the classroom, the students have the opportunity to absorb the instruction, ask questions of me and each other, engage in dialogue, and construct their projects. However, the learning process often takes place on their own after school hours, too, as students discover how to solve problems. Discovery is the key.”
Thanks to Mr. Parker, plenty of Brother Rice Crusaders are discovering just how rewarding the journey of lifelong learning can be!
