Yolanda Michelle Harman, is the daughter of Peter (deceased) and JoAnn Forno of Addison, PA.  She received her Bachelor’s of Science in Biology from Gannon University, teaching certification and Master’s Degree in Administration and Supervision (Fall 2005) from Frostburg University.  Michelle began teaching at Northern High School in 1990.  Honors/awards include National Board Certification 2001, Maryland Biology Teacher of the Year 2001, USA Today Teacher Award 2001, Elk’s Outstanding Teacher of the Year 2001, Christa McAuliffe Fellowship Award 2002, 2-time Ray Kroc Teacher Achievement Award, MIT/Hood/Frostburg/MD Science Center and ISEF Outstanding Educator Awards.  She was inducted into Delta Kappa Gamma in 2004 and serves as a regional committee member for nominations.  Michelle has served as student government advisor, department chair and school improvement member for the past 15 years.  She has also served as a multiple year class advisor, tennis and cheer coach and mentor teacher.  Michelle has developed curriculum and assessments at the local and state level and has presented at local, state and national conferences.  She is a member of numerous professional organizations and serves as an executive board member for state organizations.

How has the way you teach changed over the course of your career? What lessons have you learned?

The biggest change that seems to have occurred is the incorporation of technology in the science classroom.  The basic methods of teaching have not changed.  The inclusion of the internet, programs such as PowerPoint, computer based laboratories and other technology have allowed me to readily find information, capture student interest and more efficiently plan and implement lessons.

Another big change that has caused many smaller changes is NCLB.  This federal program has changed the dynamics of my classroom through inclusion, standardized tests and a more rigid curriculum. 

Lessons that I have learned include how to manage and organize to maximize time in and out of the classroom.  I have also learned lessons in how to actually teach through a wide variety of methods to a diverse population.

What advice would you give to a teacher who's starting their first year and feels overwhelmed?

The biggest advice that I could give is to hang in there, it gets better!  The first years are difficult and it seems as though you will never get caught up or reach your goals.  Unfortunately, this feeling does not go away.  But you must keep in mind that you can only do so much, and you have to sometimes put aside the work and focus on your own health and well-being.  Be there for the students and give them your best because that is what they deserve.

What do you think the key has been to your success as a teacher?

I believe the key to my success is my connection to students.  I have the utmost respect for them and I truly care about each and every one of them.  This caring must be evident to them because they return the respect and concern.  I think that consistency and fairness are also key elements

How do you keep your students engaged in the classroom?

The best method for engaging students is to share your passion for education and your content with them.  When they experience your enthusiasm, it is contagious, even if they struggle with the subject matter or dislike it.  I use many different methods in the classroom but I try to keep the focus on student involvement.  I try to incorporate current events and student’ interests which pull students in and they learn despite themselves.