Collinsville High School decided this school year there will be two Interventionists to help teachers and students. Mr. Nichols is the Math interventionists and Ms. Biondi is the English Interventionists. I was able to ask them questions to more understand what their positions entail.
Mr. Nichols
Q: What exactly is a math Interventionist and what does it require you to do?
A: When we started discussing this position last school year, we were not exactly sure what the position would entail. We did not really even know what we would call the position. We just knew many students in the school needed math support, and we wanted to try a different route to get them that support. Fast forward to this year, I am available to all math teachers to come into their room and help teach stations. They can send me small groups to work with, and I am available to support them in any way they need. I also push into learning strategy classes and help any student needed math help
Q:What was your motivation to choose to do this position instead of teaching in your own classroom?
A: Since Covid, I had been pushing into learning strategy classes a few hours of my day. When Dr.Toberman came to me and wanted to expand the role, I was willing to listen. I was reluctant because I did not want to give up teaching my own classes. I love having students that I get to see everyday and teach them about math. He sold me on the position by reminding me I would get to meet and work with many more students that having my own classroom did not allow me.
Q: Do you like this new position more than your previous role?
A; The new position has been great. I do get to meet with many more students. I really enjoy the days that my fellow math teacher invite me into their room to help out. I like that my schedule looks a little bit different everyday, it makes the day go by very fast.
Q: What do you wish students would know about you being able to help them?
A: I want students to know that I am available to help out whomever needs math support. Even if you do not see me in your actual class, you can reach out to me and I will do my best to get you the help you need.
Here is Mr. Nichols contact information:
Email:mnichols@cusd.kahoks.org
Ms. Biondi
Q: What exactly is an English Interventionist and what does it require you to do?
A: I don’t like the term interventionist per se. That typically carries some different responsibilities than my role. My focus is enhancing students’ reading, writing, speaking and listening skills. As for what it requires me to do, the job varies daily and hourly. I provide help to students (when they request it) and work with teachers to tailor instruction and adapt lessons to meet different needs, making each day unique.
Q:What was your motivation to choose to do this position instead of teaching in your own classroom?
A: I miss the fun of having a whole class every day, but I find joy in one-on-one sessions, understanding students’ needs, and addressing them in depth. While I LOVE having my own students, this role has the potential to impact more students. Collaborating with other teachers has the potential to help way more total kids than when I have my own. The long-term effectiveness remains to be seen, but the potential is promising.
Q: Do you like this position over your previous role?
A: I have mixed feelings. I love the creative aspect of collaborating with teachers and investing time in projects. Working with struggling students matches my belief in every human being’s ability to learn and grow. However, I miss the daily connection with a set group of students–my “own people.”
Q: What do you wish students would know about you being able to help them?
A: Given my diverse responsibilities, flexibility and planning are crucial when seeking help. While drop-ins are sometimes possible, planning ahead ensures I will be available. Additionally, I’m open to reviewing papers remotely; face-to-face interaction isn’t always required. Don’t wait until the last minute to ask me for help. Plan ahead! I also work with students on scholarship essays and entrance essays. I helped some kids learn how to study for vocabulary tests, and I’ve worked with students on speeches, a science lab, and some history projects (so long as there is reading, writing, or speaking involved, I can help).
Ms. Biondi also wanted me to share her contact information so anyone can get into contact with her when needed.
Email: sbiondi@cusd.kahoks.org
Google Voice: 314- 669- 5687
Remind: 618- 346- 6320 ext. 1281
