Noyce Scholar Profile
Jeffrey Derbidge
Undergraduate major or graduate field of study: Mathematics
Subject area(s) and grade level teaching focus: Secondary Mathematics
Category of scholarship/fellowship:
Fifth year or post-baccalaureate Noyce scholar
Name of Noyce institution:
University of Utah/ Smart Program
Current academic or teaching status:
Masters Degree
School and school district:
Olympus Jr. High/Granite School District
Background:
I am a Graduate of California State University Los Angeles with a Master’s of Mathematics. I taught at Calstate LA as a teaching associate. I am currently getting my licensure at the University of Utah.
Why do you want to teach:
I want to help make a difference in the lives of my students. I love to work with youth and their enthusiasm for life. I believe students thoughts are malleable and I have life experience to help provide encouragement.
Describe a memorable teaching experience:
As I was teaching/tutoring a student. She came to me and was failing the class. I worked with her and her grade improved to a C and then to an A. It was gratifying to know that I could help make a difference in her life.
What does the Noyce program mean to you:
It has been a privilege to be part of the program. My fellow associates are of the highest calibur of people and I enjoy my association with them. My mentor is an example of a master teacher. I enjoy thoroughly learning different techniques that will help make me a good teacher.