Name: Todd Polk

Degree: ‘22 M.Ed. Curriculum & Instruction

Current Employer: Arbor View High School

What is something that people don’t know about the field, specifically secondary science teachers, that you think people should know?

I think one thing about science that I think a lot of people need to focus on isn’t so much the facts, but rather the skills. I think the idea of being able to digest data and actually create products or projects is something that I think needs to be paid closer attention to.

Was there a fun/unique class that you took during your time at UNLV?

A summer class that I took that was on special education. Made me think about accessibility in a new way, how some people that are disabled have difficulties that you might not think about. One concept that hits me like a truck now, and one thing I see in “neurotypical kids” is this idea of learned helplessness; which was a concept that was brought on by that class.

Any advice you want to share for current UNLV students?

I encourage education students to utilize the university while you’re on campus, and then consider it a resource once you leave it because UNLV cares about its alumni.

Are you a COE alum? Let us know what you’ve got going on by submitting a Class Note or getting involved!