Brendan Earle

Brendan Earle has been with ArtsWest since it opened its doors. He originally hails from San Jose, California. Brendan holds a BA with Honors in Political Science from San Jose State University; a Master of Arts in Political Science from the University of California, Davis; and a secondary education credential in Social Science from San Francisco State University.

Brendan is currently pursuing a Masters in Educational Leadership from Boise State (because you can never have too many MAs). His teaching background includes sections of Political Science, and the History of Political Thought at UC Davis. He has also taught US History, AP World History, Honors Geography, International Relations, Government and Economics at the high school level. Brendan is also adjunct faculty at Boise State through their concurrent enrollment program in History and Political Science.

In addition to keeping up with the students at ArtsWest, Brendan enjoys reading, exercising, paying attention to the foibles of our leaders, and time in Tahoe when possible. He also enjoys spending time with his wife Ali, daughters Audrie and Maddie, two cats Jake and Mao, and Pomeranian Swayze.

Philosophy 

Learning is participatory not passive. Students will reach their greatest potential in the classroom and as lifelong learners when they are actively involved and responsible for their education. A teacher ought to act as a facilitator, determining goals for the students to reach. However, it is incumbent upon the students and teacher to work in concert to reach this end. In order for true learning to take place, a teacher must create an effective classroom climate. This is accomplished through appropriate classroom management techniques, clear, relevant, well articulated objectives for students, challenging material, and stimulating discussions and projects. With students and teachers both striving to expand their knowledge, skills, and to reach their full potential, incredible results can be achieved.