Foran’s new teacher, Mr. Elan DeCarlo, has taken on the challenge of starting new in a school year that’s already near its end. From TV to reality, DeCarlo has put the “New” in New Girl.
Starting from just the sitcom New Girl, DeCarlo gained reason toward a path by seeing, as DeCarlo says, “How fun it looked and how silly it could be.”
New Girl, which aired in 2011, follows an eccentric teacher who struggles to find adequate housing after a breakup. She used a unique teaching method, based on student relationships and enjoyment.
DeCarlo started his teaching career at Sacred Heart, earning his Master’s in MAT in Secondary Ed, then following through with being a full-time student-teacher. Following his education, he secured his first teaching position in Bridgeport, where he remained for four years.
Upon his position at Bridgeport, DeCarlo was made aware of the open teaching position at Foran after Mrs. Corey Evans took on a different position, and DeCarlo decided to take a leap of faith. He knew how daunting it would be to take on the challenge of starting a brand new position during the final stretch of the year, stating,
“I’m having a really great time. This has been a great challenge, coming in at the end of the year.”
Despite the difficulty of starting at a new school, he noticed his students seemed open to him as the newcomer, and DeCarlo felt he was easily able to make new connections, which is also one of his traits that comes effortlessly.
“It’s way easier than people make it out to be. Students and teachers, they just want to be heard.”
With new teachers come a new style for students to get used to. DeCarlo has exposed his students to his own path of success.
He recognizes his teaching style as laid-back but energetic; his main goal is to make the classroom a comfortable place for all students in the school.
“Somewhere where communication is encouraged, and it is student-centered with students being the driving force,” DeCarlo states.
Sophomore Tristan Sevillano, who has DeCarlo as their English 2 teacher, has found themselves enjoying DeCarlo’s style of teaching. Since their year has been hectic with multiple academic switch-ins, students have found comfort in a stable environment.
Sevillano states, “[DeCarlo] constantly brings positive energy, especially to the classroom. He always encourages and supports his students around him.
With a teacher like DeCarlo, Sevillano has been able to engage himself and his peers in thoughtful, yet lighthearted discussions that promote a healthy environment.
Sophomore Tatum Deitelbaum agrees with Sevillano, stating, “My favorite part of this class is probably the discussions because they’re funny and actually help me understand topics.”
Overall, the Foran community is enjoying the new energy DeCarlo is bringing to the school. From his personality to his discussion styles, he’s only just begun paving the way for his students’ success.
