Pathfinder teacher keeps kids on task by letting them go a little off track

By Karley Craven and Mia Khampadith, The Noetice

Many sixth-graders at Noe say Brandon Sasser is an excellent teacher. Students note that because he is one of the younger educators at Noe and his reliability helps him connect with them. This connection makes his class enjoyable, humorous, and heart-warming.

Despite his relaxed demeanor and comfortable classes, he is determined to help his students progress, not just academically, but socially as well. With this dedication, Pathfinders are beginning to show newfound confidence.

Sasser is also proven to be quite lenient, giving his students periodic free-time (when work is complete).

“I think my favorite part of social studies is the free-time we get,” said sixth-grader Louisville Moo, who is on the Pathfinders team.

Even though free-time may seem like a waste to some, it is highly valued amongst younger students, giving them mental breaks throughout the week. Frequent free-time in his class makes it a favorite of Pathfinders. Because of these breaks, students are often seen participating  in activities, doing their work without complaints, and staying focused in class.

Mr. Sasser refuses to give homework regularly.

“I want to respect their time at home,” he said. “I’ll only make it homework if they don’t finish it in class.”

By tying homework directly to class productivity, this strategy gives students a reason to stay focused in his class. When they realize hard work in class guarantees time to themselves at home, the students become more motivated.

Through free-time, fair rules, and mutual respect, Mr. Sasser proves that learning social studies may be hard work, yet it can be a lot of fun. He isn’t only getting the sixth-graders through social studies, he’s preparing them to succeed all throughout their time at Noe.