Each Friday during the school year, we will spotlight one of our M3T Fellows. This week, let’s meet Michael Harshbarger from the Cabell County Career Technology Center!
Michael Harshbarger
M3T Noyce Fellow – Cohort 2
High School Mathematics Teacher
Cabell County Career Technology Center
Cabell County Schools
Twitter: @MichaelHarshb16
Number of years teaching: 9
Positions and Roles: Advanced Math Modeling and Financial Algebra Teacher, Leadership Team member, Academic Advisory for SkillsUSA & National Technical Honor Society, Faculty Senate Treasurer
Professional awards, distinctions, and points of pride: M3T Fellow, CCCTC Teacher of the Year in 2019
Interesting personal facts: I’m a wife and mother of two boys, Cole (11) and Reed (9). My family loves to be outside and we spend most of our free time camping or enjoying the boys’ sporting events.
Why are you excited to be part of the M3T project?
“I look forward to growing as an educator throughout this process. I am excited to be able to collaborate with educators from all over the state as we work on a common goal.”
Why do you teach mathematics?
“Prior to becoming a math teacher I was an accountant, where I saw first-hand the importance of math. I love being able to work with students and sharing with them the love I have for mathematics.”
What are you focused on improving about mathematics teaching?
“It is not ok for students to say they are ‘bad at math.’ As a teacher it is my responsibility to create an environment where students not only learn the material but are confident in their skills. Once this confidence is acquired students will be prepared for any math challenge.”
Final Thoughts:
“M3T has provided me with the opportunity to network with the most amazing group of math teachers. I feel excited and empowered after every meeting. Being part of this group has encouraged me to continue to explore ways to improve math education. I look forward to continuing this work.”
Spotlight Tweet:
Check in each week on #M3TFellowFriday throughout the school year to meet another M3T Fellow. You can find a listing of all of the M3T Fellows and stay up-to-date with the work of the M3T network at our website, https://m3twv.org. You can also follow us on Twitter, @m3t_wv.
