Marshall Elementary teachers learn how to “Teach Like a Pirate”

Teach Like a Pirate by Dave Burgess is the latest book study for Marshall Elementary teachers participating in the Teacher as Readers initiative. Marshall Elementary teachers are not only reading the book, but over a two-month period they meet five times to discuss it and determine more effective teaching strategies.

The book is an inspirational manifesto based on seminars by Burgess that shares techniques and ideas on how teachers can boost their creativity in lesson plans and establish a rapport with students in order to increase student engagement in the classroom, according to a news release from Prince William County Schools.

English of Second Languages Teacher Rebecca Tinsley was quoted as saying, “We have learned that creativity can be developed in all classrooms and that both our personal and professional passions can be used to enhance our instruction.  Teachers have had opportunities to share their own creative hooks while brainstorming new ones to use in the future.”

Lara Biendl, a gifted teacher was quoted as saying, “We are focusing some of our discussion on viewing our classrooms and lessons through the eyes of students who are gifted and ESOL students so that we can better serve those populations.”

The book was selected by Principal Dr. Kristin Waldrop to promote the school’s vision, which is creating “a caring and supportive community developing a strong foundation for success.”