To Whom It May Concern: I am fortunate to be working with Alex Baranosky during his student teaching experience at Valley High

School. He has assumed responsibility for my two sections of Creative Writing, a middle level elective class for students in grades 10-12. During his student teaching experience, Mr. Baranosky has impressed me with his enthusiasm, compassionate personality, classroom management skills, and commitment. Without a doubt, one of Alexs greatest strengths in his teaching is his enthusiasm for the craft. He truly enjoys teaching, and his enthusiasm is captured by his students. Alex keeps class interesting by varying the activities and making the material applicable to students own lives while still addressing all necessary standards. The lessons Alex plans encourage active learning and critical thinking. A recent example of this was a lesson on poetic devices that incorporated nursery rhymes, art, and performance. Students are engaged during class in ways that encourage learning. Alex connects student learning to shared interests and popular culture, teaching literary theme through text chat and characterization through movie and television characters. The students enjoy coming to class each day, and because of that, are more involved and engaged in their own learning. Alexs enthusiasm is not only for teaching itself, but for his students as well. He takes the time to get to know his students which shows them he cares about their lives outside of class. Because he knows and cares about his students, he is able to design lessons to meet individual students needs. He takes the time to connect with students, talking with them during study halls or passing periods about themselves and their interests. Alexs interaction with a student named Zach demonstrates this enthusiasm and compassion. Zach is a special needs student with exceptional artistic passion. Alex has not only found time outside of class to look at Zachs art, he has also used Zachs artistic skills in lesson design. When another teacher suggested that Zach should not be permitted to draw during class, Alex passionately defended the student, explaining how it keeps him engaged in class and helps his learning. Zach knows Alex cares about him and because of this, works much harder in class. Because of his rapport with students and his enthusiasm, Alex has had virtually no behavior issues in class. He has a strong, vibrant classroom presence, which keeps students active and engaged. When students seem to be off task, Alex is able to gently redirect them using humor and compassion. Alex is comfortable working with students in large and small groups as well as one-on-one, and he does so in ways that still keep all students focused on learning. A focus on student learning is evident in all aspects of Alexs teaching. Alex has written many e-mails to parents so they can stay involved in their childs learning. Alex has the innate ability to know how to motivate students and pushes them to achieve their best. Hes committed to teaching, but more importantly is committed to providing the best education possible for his students. Having such high expectations for himself and his students is not a challenge for Alex because of his amazing work ethic. The paper load of teaching two writing classes can be daunting, but Alex thoughtfully evaluates students work in record time. While student teaching with four different preps, he also works at a grocery store and the Des Moines Playhouse, is helping to direct the school play, and has continued to work with Dowling Catholic speech students. Without an exceptional work ethic, he would not be able to effectively juggle such responsibilities. This commitment to hard work is a model for high school students who are still learning time management skills. Alex Baranoskys accomplishments during his student teaching experience have been outstanding. He leads class in a way that all students feel comfortable, supported, and challenged each day. His presence has energized our English department; he would be an asset to any school environment. Sincerely,

Sandra Abbott