Algonquin Middle School teacher Chris Anderson was selected to join the New York Times Teaching Project for the 2021-22 school year.
In total, 40 middle school and high school educators from across the country were chosen to participate in the Project, which has a goal of “bringing the mission of The Times – helping people understand the world through on-the-ground, expert and deeply reported independent journalism – to their students and school communities.”
“I heard about this project in an email from the New York Times Learning Network,” Anderson said. “I was intrigued by the opportunity to work with the Learning Network staff, as well as the chance to meet and collaborate with educators from around the country. I thought it couldn’t hurt to go through the application process and, with any luck, I’d be selected.”
The selection process included an online application, evidence of use of the New York Times in lessons, letters of recommendation, and a video submission.
This is the second year that the Project has taken place and Mr. Anderson was thrilled to be among the 40 applicants selected among the many submissions.
“As a result of participating in this project, I hope to learn about more ways to use the Times in my classroom as well as share ways in which my colleagues in other grades and disciplines can, too,” Anderson said. “I’m also looking forward to learning from the New York Times Learning Network staff, as well as the other educators from around the nation. Even after more than 20 years in teaching, I have lots of ways I can improve as a teacher and colleague.”
The program kicked off earlier this month with a four-day virtual institute for participants to explore ways to use The Times and its Learning Network; learn about behind-the-scenes journalism; and begin an innovative curriculum for students. The program continues throughout the school year.
“The four-day virtual institute was amazing,” Anderson said. “We met with reporters, columnists, photographers, editors, and other members of the New York Times staff to learn about the inner workings of the paper. In addition, we collaborated with the New York Times Learning Network staff to explore different learning resources that are available, including their Student Opinion activities as well as their projects throughout the year.”
Anderson met and worked with teachers from all over the country, including locations such as Colorado, Ohio, California, and more.
“It was an inspiring four days and it’s also just the start of a year-long project to implement a Times-centered project into our classrooms,” he said. “I am so grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this project and I’m looking forward to sharing what I learn, not only with my students, but with as many teachers in the Averill Park Central School District as I can.”
