Lessons from the Field: Interview with Cary Nadzak

This post is part of the Teachers Certification Map’s “lessons from the field”, a series of posts featuring passionate, inspiring educators from across the country discussing some of the lessons that they have learned over the years that would help young teachers as they embark on their careers.

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Cary Nadzak works for Dorchester TWO as a social studies interventionist and it’s her 25th year as a teacher. Below is our interview.

What inspired you to teach?

My mom was a kindergarten teacher and my dad a coach.  They inspired me to become a teacher.

What classroom methods are most helpful in pushing students towards their goals?

I think hands-on activities engage students and help them continue that excitement when having to complete traditional assignments.  I just published my 1st book, If It Ain’t Broke, Break It!  Creating Organized Chaos in the Classroom! which is full of ways to jazz up instruction.

What is the one thing you wish you’d known when you started in the classroom?

I wish I’d known as a first year teacher “not to sweat the small stuff.’

What did your training teach you that was most helpful in preparing you to enjoy and thrive in a classroom today?

I have a Master’s Degree in Learning Disabilities but I believe the on-the-job experiences is what made me a great teacher!  I also am a firm believer in building relationships with students and their parents.  Teachers should take an interest in students’ athletic events, chorus concerts and such.

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Do you know someone with great insights to share with young teachers, or do you want to be considered for an interview? If so, please email us at hello@certificationmap.com.

This is a guest post from our journalist Alex J. Mann.  You can subscribe to his blog here and follow him on Twitter here.