Hi my name is Nick Wickles and I am a second year physical education teacher at Selser School in Chicopee, Massachusetts. I graduated from Keene State College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education Teaching Certification. I am now entering my first year as a graduate student here at Springfield College attending half-time with a goal to graduate in the spring of 2013.

Why Springfield?

I chose SC simply because of its incomparable reputation. I currently teach elementary physical education and I knew that I would receive the best possible instruction from their physical education department. I am very confident that my studies here will result in becoming a highly effective teacher!

My definition of an effective physical education teacher:

A person who is a superb role model for their students. As a teacher, I believe that my most effective skill is leading by example. Respect, teamwork, sportsmanship, honesty and kindness are all valued characteristics that I promote every day. I believe an effective P.E. teacher plans properly so their students participate in appropriate age and skill level activities. My goal, trying to be an effective teacher, is for every one of my students to find success during class. I want them to leave my class feeling proud and confident because they worked hard and had fun!

My Real Life experiences....

I am starting my second year as a physical education teacher at Selser Elementary School in Chicopee, MA. I teach K-5 with a total of 400 students and am very involved with my school participating in organizations and participating at events and fundraisers.

I coached a middle school boys basketball team in Keene, New Hampshire when I was finishing my undergraduate degree.

I am now refereeing high school soccer games in the Hampshire and Franklin counties and will be officiating basketball this winter.

During the summer I coach at the Western Mass. Basketball Camp at Amherst College.

What research topic/area am I interested in?

I am still in thought about my research topic that I would like to pursue.

Expectations for Advanced Instructional Strategies?

That I will learn and acquire many valuable methods of teaching with the intention of applying them immediately with my students.