Graduate Student Focus | Jim Rossi

"I chose the Curriculum & Instruction program at Hood College for the program's research-based, pedagogically sound approach to teaching and learning. I can honestly say that each and every course has helped me become a better classroom teacher and a better leader within my school and my district."

Jim Rossi, Curriculum & Instruction M.S.

Program

Curriculum and Instruction (M.S.)

Department

Education

Graduate School
Graduate Student

Academics
Education

04/13/2021

Hood College graduate student, Jim Rossi, graduates with his master's in Curriculum & Instruction in May 2021. Jim is currently a social studies teacher at Northern Middle School in Hagerstown, MD, and has been in education for over 12 years.

Why did you choose Hood College?

I chose the Curriculum & Instruction program at Hood College for the program's research-based, pedagogically sound approach to teaching and learning. I can honestly say that each and every course has helped me become a better classroom teacher and a better leader within my school and my district.

What do you enjoy most about being at Hood College?

I've cherished building my professional network while enrolled at Hood College. I've greatly enjoyed working with professors and colleagues throughout my four years in the program.

Furthermore, the professors in the program do an incredible job of making research-based pedagogy practical and applicable to classrooms. Countless times I've taken something from grad class and immediately put it into practice in my classroom.

I value the entire experience being a part of the Curriculum & Instruction Program.

You were recently named one of the five finalists for Washington County Teacher of the Year. Congratulations! Tell us about what this process has been like for you.

Thanks! It's an incredible honor to be chosen as one of five finalists for Washington County Teacher of the Year. The process was a whirlwind!

I was previously named a finalist in the spring of 2017, and at that time the process called for judges to randomly pop into my classroom to observe the teaching and learning occurring in the room.

This year, the pandemic has changed that process, and finalists will be tasked with completing a few questions about teaching and learning before their final interview with the judges. It's a quick turnaround, as we are interviewing with the judges on April 7th and the winner will be announced on April 14th.

Any other information/fun facts that you would like to add?

I highly recommend the Curriculum & Instruction program for educators wishing to enhance their classroom pedagogy. Additionally, the four elective slots within the program's framework allowed me to take classes which are a part of the Hood College Educational Leadership Program. These electives have been instrumental in helping me serve as a teacher leader in my school. Furthermore, if I decide to pursue a Certificate in Educational Leadership, I will already have four of the required classes in my back pocket.

Inspired by Jim’s story and ready to #GOFURTHER in your education and career? Learn about Hood’s graduate programs, including the Curriculum & Instruction program, by clicking here.