Jack Berckemeyer at NYSMSA Conference

“It became apparent during the interview that humor would play a huge part in our team’s dynamics if I got the job. The interview was going along well until, while I was answering a question enthusiastically, a big drop of spit flew out of my mouth and landed well toward the middle of the table.”
Jack Berckemeyer

This past week I had the huge pleasure of listening to Jack Berckemeyer at the NYSMSA State Conference. Jack was an enthusiastic, motivating teacher from Colorado who spoke at the banquet dinner after a series of awards and short speeches. When it was his turn to be on stage, he nearly jumped out of his seat and before too long, I found that I was falling out of mine, laughing. Jack’s message was as straight to the point as it was funny.

Jack’s first rule in the classroom is to engage the students. Keep them moving. He described middle school students being like that of herded cats and movement helps to keep them focused. He continued to say that learning is a collaborative process; cooperative groups can be engaging for middle schoolers. His second rule is to show that you care for the students. Humor helps, but students can tell if you don’t want to be in there. He also discussed the learning environment and the effect it can have on students. These rules were discussed during his speech, but he goes well in-depth in his book, “Managing the Madness.” (I have a copy of the book – let me know if you’d like to borrow it.) His book provides many strategies and processes to reinforce his rules, in true Berckemeyer style.

During Jack’s talk to the assembled teachers, administrators, and honored guests, he rolled from one comical story to another; each tale seemed relatively familiar since most of us had spent time in a middle school, which made everything that much more humorous. At one point during the talk his voice calmed, the tone turned serious, and everyone leaned forward to hear. The message was clear – success in the classroom comes down to the relationships we form with the students. As he explained this, the gathered professionals were silent. Gradually, as the truth seemed to permeate our core, the applause began. Jack Berckemeyer understood the secret to the middle-level: Relationships. I found myself standing with ovation, appreciation, and agreement. The team from AAK knew this as the truth. I felt pride in being a part of that team which understood the power that Jack Berckemeyer spoke of.

Let’s keep building positive relationships with our students and enjoy your weekend.

Happy Halloween!

Jamie