The school year of 2011-12, welcomes a new class: College Preparation to Reading. Instead of teens being the students, they are the ones teaching others. The teens work as if they are apprentices for Mr. Phil Rockrohr. There are at least one to two students in each class period and the class is held in the Writing Center. Teens are taught to help teach other students, who have signed up for the Writing Center, how to improve their essays. The Jaguar Journal asked Mr. Rockrohr for an interview on more insights of his new class.
Jaguar Journal: What prompted you to start College Preparation to Reading?
Mr. Rockrohr: “Well the primary reason for this class is the fact that research and education shows that teachings others is the best way to learn. If students have the skills to teach others, doing that will benefit themselves. The practical reason is that this class will allow the writing students to help more students.”
JJ: Are you nervous about the results?
Mr. R: “A little. I’m nervous because it’s new, but I’m also excited.”
JJ: What do you hope to gain?
Mr. R: “I hope to gain a better performance of my job, but it will be nice to know more students and A.P. students.”
JJ: Does the number of students, who sign up for the writing center, increase each year?
Mr. R: “A little, but mostly the seniors. More students come during deadlines or college essays.”
JJ: Do you have a teaching style?
Mr. R: “I suppose. The Writing Center is a loose structure almost all interactive.”
JJ: Why Writing?
Mr. R: “I’ve been writing professionally for 24 years. It is a very creative way to get outside or lose yourself. Writing can also get in touch with yourself.”
JJ: Is there something you think would motivate more teens to come to the center?
Mr. R: “It will be hard to get an appointment if you come at the last minute. The paper wouldn’t be as good if done late.”
