January 8, 2016

Yesterday, Nick was proud to serve as “Teacher for Day” at the Metropolitan Learning Center (MLC) in Northwest Portland.

The MLC is a K-12 program that focuses on an experimental learning model, with non-traditional classroom structures. Teachers provide a project and adventure based learning environment for students.

Nick shadowed Dana Absgarten, who teaches Language Arts classes for 7^th and 8^th graders. Highlights of the day included: reading a short story to the class, participating in the group discussions, meeting Principal Pamela Joyner, and visiting a number of other classrooms.

Nick was especially pleased to learn that Dana’s students had been studying civil rights leaders like Ida B. Wells. Nick’s wife Patty wrote an award-winning biography of Ms. Wells.

Afterwards, Nick attended a luncheon hosted by the Gwen Sullivan and the Portland Association of Teachers (PAT), and shared his experience with other participants.

Thanks MLC, Ms. Absgarten, and PAT for an inspiring day!

 Check out the Metropolitan Learning Center’s website to learn more about this great school.