Meet The Rapping Mathematician

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis

Today, I interviewed Alex Kajitani, known as the “Rapping Mathematician.” He's the 2009 California Teacher of the Year, a Top-4 Finalist for National Teacher of the Year, and author of the book “You're a Teacher Now, What's Next?”

In a heartfelt conversation with Vicki Davis, Alex Kajitani, known as the Rapping Mathematician and honored as the 2009 California Teacher of the Year, shares invaluable insights and encouragement for new teachers navigating the early years of their careers. Highlighting themes from his book, "You're a Teacher Now. What's Next?" Kajitani addresses the universal challenges and triumphs that new educators face, emphasizing the critical importance of persistence, support, and continuous improvement in the teaching profession.

Illustration by Michael Keany/AI

Kajitani reassures new teachers that they are not alone in their experiences, stressing that both the struggles and successes they encounter are shared by educators everywhere. He urges them to view the teaching journey as a series of opportunities for renewal and growth, pointing out that the ability to "start anew" at various points throughout the school year offers a path to overcoming challenges and enhancing their teaching practice.

A central piece of advice from Kajitani is the importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences and seeking mentorship from experienced and effective educators. He highlights the value of observing and learning from peers as a form of professional development that can lead to significant improvements in teaching strategies and classroom management.

Kajitani also touches on the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal life, sharing personal anecdotes that underscore the benefits of engaging in activities outside the classroom to stay refreshed and motivated. Celebrating small milestones and maintaining a positive perspective, he argues, are essential for new teachers to navigate the complexities of their roles with resilience and optimism.

The discussion culminates in a powerful reflection on the lasting impact of teaching, with Kajitani asserting that educators teach to "live forever" through the ideas and values they pass on to their students and the next generation of teachers. This sentiment beautifully encapsulates the profound influence teachers have, not only on the individuals they educate but also on the broader fabric of society.

Overall, Kajitani's message is one of hope, resilience, and the transformative power of education. His conversation with Vicki Davis serves as a beacon of support for new teachers, encouraging them to embrace their role with courage, creativity, and a commitment to continuous growth and learning.

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Prepared with the assistance of AI software

OpenAI. (2024). ChatGPT (4) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com