“I love coming to work.” – That’s a sentence you don’t hear
everyday, but for Justin Cordes they are five words becoming more and more
prevalent during his first month at Crittenton Centers.
Corders, 37, is the only male teacher teaching preschoolers
(the Dragonflies) at Crittenton Centers. He visited here one month ago to
observe for a college class, and “I wanted to be part of it,” he said.
And a part of it he is, as he gathers his group of Dragonflies
on the rug for Sign & Sing class with Abbey Cook from Communication
Junction. “How about you come back here and sit crisscross applesauce. … All
right, give me five!” he energetically yelled out as directions are followed.
As the children learn the signs for more, friend, together and
happy, among others, I decided to ask “Mr. Justin” just what brought him here.
1. What first caught your
attention about Early Childhood Education?
As a
stay at home dad, I had the privilege of spending a great deal of time with my
daughter, and I took a very active role in her education. I met her teachers
and volunteered in her classrooms and saw the passion and dedication that Early
Childhood Educators put into their job.
2. Why didn’t you pursue high
school history like you intended?
I had
spent time in high school classrooms as a student observer and really felt like
it wasn't a good fit for me. To be completely frank, it was depressing. A lot
of the kids simply didn't care and the teachers that I worked with didn’t seem
to care either. I felt, and still do, that I could have the most positive
impact working with young children.
3. What drew you to Crittenton
Centers and not another preschool?
I came to do some observation for a college class and never
wanted to leave. I feel really, really great when I go home at the end of the
day. We teach everything; social skills, reading, math and more.
4. Why do you think
there are more women than men preschool teachers?
Well, for me, my choice came from something more personal. My
dad wasn’t around when I was a kid. I was raised by my grandfather, and he was
amazing. I have a lot of kids at risk, and I feel if I can just help one kid
over the next year it will be all worth it. I want to be a positive male impact
for kids that maybe don’t have one at home.
5. How would you
describe your teaching style?
I don’t want to be overly forceful. I’m a catch more flies
with honey kind of a teacher. I’ve learned these five tips: Quiet voices, quiet
bodies, sit crisscross applesauce, ears listen and eyes open and on teacher. But
I’m looking forward to what this year has to offer and everything I will learn.
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