65-Matthew Porricelli Preaches the Gospel of Student-Led Learning and his 4th Grade Disciples Back him 1000%

Summary: Matthew Porricelli is a 4th grade teacher at the Mamaroneck Avenue School just outside of Manhattan. In this marvelous episode, we learn about Mr. P's classroom from expert witnesses...his students. These kids are a joy to listen to and the things they describe should be standard operating procedure in every classroom regardless of the level. Mr. P's class sounds like a dream, but what really moved me, was the way these young folks responded to their teacher. It's apparent that there's a bottomless mutual affection. This episode is golden for it's outstanding suggestions on pedagogy, but there's something more...something more profound and important. Matt's students are crazy about him! As you listen to these wonderful voices, keep asking yourself, How can I evolve such a climate in my room?