mrs. Alison VanOverbeke
Welcome to my Digital Teacher Portfolio!
This is a living document, continually adapting and growing just as my teaching does.
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About Mrs. VanOverbeke
I am a teacher, creator, adventurer, and lifelong learner. Born on a farm in Goodrich, Michigan and raised in the suburb of Grand Blanc, Michigan, I will always be "Smitten with the Mitten." From Michigan, I traveled to Waianae, Hawaii, where I taught 11th and 12th grade English. I returned to the Mainland for Graduate school at Columbia College Chicago where I taught as an Adjunct Professor while earning a Masters of Fine Arts in Creative Nonfiction. I have called Chicago, IL home for the past sixteen years where my husband, Chad, son, Finnley, and dog, Marley enjoy the mix of city life, parks, and the lakefront.
While teaching college-age students and content felt impressive, my heart pulled me back to the public sector. I became a city-wide substitute teacher for all grades and content areas, while coaching Girls Junior Varsity Softball until I found a school where I knew I belonged: Prieto Math & Science Academy. It was at Prieto that I stretched my teaching wings and took on new challenges: teaching Physical Education for 4 years, then 6th grade ELA for 4 years, and now Health & Wellness for PK-grade 8.
Teaching Philosophy
The video on the right was shown at a Ted Talk several years ago. I have shown it to every class since (and just about anyone who is interested in education theory). It outlines the history of education in the United States and what's not working today.
Without a doubt, the education paradigm has shifted; with the expansion of technology and extensive research available, teaching methods need to be adjusted, regularly.
Furthermore, the Covid-19 Pandemic changed the world, including the public school student. Now, more than ever Social Emotional Learning should be integrated into all content areas.
Service Learning
Community service and outreach is a civic duty. As such, I try to do my part while integrating it into my teaching as well. After all, community service is good for the planet, great for others, and more often than not, beneficial for the self.
On the left, you can check out the Tree Garden students from the Peace Center Chicago planted. Click below to Learn more about Service Learning and Community Involvement.
Contact
Alison Katherine VanOverbeke
4907 N Monticello Ave.
Floor 2
Chicago, IL 60625
