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|  | | | | Brad Cook | | By way of introduction, just let
me say that it really does take a community to raise a child. I want to thank some contributors to the cause who usually like to remain anonymous. Every year I have had parents and people outside the district either donate resources, financial gifts, or time. I'd like to recognize a couple contributors - for without their assistance, much of what we do would not be possible. Last year, a professional from Golden Valley, Ms. Jensen, donated two boxes full of dictionaries, thesauruses and writing texts to my classroom. I also want to thank the Eisenthals for their financial gift to the school. Believe it or not, these things can make a huge difference in the classroom - and are much appreciated, since Highland does not qualify for many funds available to other schools.
I have a rather
varied background. Before becoming a teacher, I worked in public
television, the music business, and the construction industry. I
first began teaching in 1994, at the ripe old age of 40. I am a firm believer that you can accomplish your dreams no matter the age, and it's something I want my students to believe. Last year I published my first book of poetry.- a goal of mine since I was 16 years old.
After 3 years
as an elementary teacher, I was recruited by the St. Paul Public
Schools as a technology specialist for Humboldt Junior High. It was there
that I discovered that I had an affinity for teaching kids that age. I
remained a junior high teacher for nine years, though changed to
teaching English and moved to Monroe Community School seven years
ago. As you can tell, I have wanderlust, and don't tend to stay in one
place too long.
For many
years I had thought about teaching high school, and finally had the
opportunity to teach at Highland. I have found teaching
to be the most difficult, yet the most rewarding occupation I have
held; and while the challenges are many, especially in a new school,
with new curriculum , it is still something that excites me and makes
me look forward to going to work every day. I enjoy working with
students, and still maintain my passion for the process of teaching. It
is, indeed, a blessed person who can pursue their passion - and I am
grateful for the opportunity each and every day.
It is my sincere intent to bring my love of literature and ideas to my
students and create a passion in them for truly great writing and
unique, often controversial ideas expressed by writers who have pushed
the boundaries of human thought and understanding. One of the greatest
sources of excitement that literature brings; and one of the unique
things I truly enjoy about teaching literature, is the frank discussion
in class of the philosophies embodied in the various works. What other
discipline has the opportunity to discuss ideas at the very core of our
existence?
Please work with me in helping your child embrace learning and attain success?
WORKING TOGETHER, WE CAN HELP EVERY STUDENT REACH SUCCESS!
CARPE DIEM!
Brad Cook
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11th Grade American Literature
American Literature has a rich, yet short history, which, like all
other literature, reflects the times and influences, as well as the
influences of the various cultural periods in history. There is much to
choose from, so the texts listed below are a sampling of what may be
offered during the year. I reserve the right to select texts based on
the needs and desires of my students, as long as I can find class sets
of various titles available in the building. As always, accomodations
are made for students with IEP's, and their assignments and assessments
may be modified to suit their learning needs and abilities.
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9th Grade MYP and Pre-IB English
Below, is the syllabus for my 9IB class. These classes offer greater challenges to students who wish to
challenge their academic limits and prepare for the more rigorous
college curriculum ahead. IB classes are very scripted, and as a result, don't allow for much variance from either the content or the procedures,. They rely on more student work being done outside of class, and require students to be self-motivating. While IB classes aren't for everyone, I challenge every student to at least try one IB class while at Highland. You may discover that you enjoy greater academic rigor, and that the challenges invigorate your thirst for learning.
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