“We must be stronger than 2020.”
Toolkit: Technology and Computer Science Teacher Mohamad Dajani
Mohamad Dajani teaches foundations of technology and computer science at North Dorchester High School in Dorchester County.
1. Work Hard I try to follow my father’s work ethic. He worked so hard and cared so much. My takeaway from this is not only to support my family but to always do my very best. Nothing comes easily and understanding that you get what you give is an essential lesson that I share with my students. work ethic. He worked so hard and cared so much. My takeaway from this is not only to support my family but to always do my very best. Nothing comes easily and understanding that you get what you give is an essential lesson that I share with my students.
2. Be Resilient No one likes to lose, but when I do, I take a lesson from it and work hard to make the adjustments. Students need to feel confident that even though we’re not in school or can’t play sports or hangout with friends, they can’t give up. We will overcome these hard times.
3. Solve Problems Everyone faces challenges in life and overcoming them can be hard. For high school students, social and academic challenges are a constant. I let my students know that there are skills they can learn to get through hard times. Helping them learn essential problem-solving skills is part of being an educator.
4. Think Critically There have been times when parents heard my name and asked their child if I was a “terrorist.” When they tell me that, I ask them simply: What do you think? What does your experience of me tell you? Do I seem like a “terrorist” to you? I want them to use their knowledge, skills, and experience to think critically about what they see and hear no matter where it comes from.
5. Find Balance I’m a teacher, a waiter, and a private tennis and soccer instructor. I have a family, I play sports, and I like to play video games and watch TV. I can do all these things and enjoy my life because I manage my time well. Balance in life is essential, especially now. This crisis means caring for ourselves and each other.
6. Experience Diversity I’ve lived in California, Jordan, and Maryland. I’m a Muslim. I’ve traveled many places in the world and met many people with different backgrounds. I encourage students to explore when they can—there is so much more positive than negative in our world.