Page Text: 2015 Minnesota World Language Teacher of the Year
2016 Central States Conference Teacher of the Year
2017 ACTFL National Language Teacher of the Year Finalist
I am an innovative public educator and potter living in St. Paul, MN. I have taught in and directed innovative language learning programs since 1997.
I have been making pots since 1997 when my friend and mentor, Steve Hilton, first introduced me to clay. I apprenticed with Haddie Hadachek at Black Bear Pottery in Brainerd, MN and got my hands in clay whenever possible while also embarking on a career teaching languages.
In language education, I pioneer innovative methods to reach and teach ALL my middle school students.
In the studio I explore the convergence of the processes of language acquisition and ceramic art.
INSPIRING
Though there are many languages I’m eager to discover, German has never been one. Yet as a beginning German student, I found myself drawn in and very eager to keep learning! Our class readings have emphasized the importance of narrative form and emotional investment for connecting students to lessons and helping them create meaning. I thought this was a bit unimpressive. However, it only took the briefest experience as your student for me to see otherwise. I’m grateful for the opportunity you gave us to sit on the other side of the desk and try being beginners again.
Elizabeth Workshop Participant
MENTORING
I am without appropriate words to express how grateful I am for Grant's investment into my teaching career. I feel that I have been encouraged, stretched, challenged, supported, enlightened, and more. He is a wonderful mentor and colleague.
Laura Abuhl Spanish Teacher
LEADING
I have directed the iFLT Conference for several years, and 2015 was the first year we have ever had to turn students away! We had a waiting list of students who wanted to take classes, and that is a huge testament to Grant’s universal success in the classroom, his professional relationship with his colleagues and his stellar reputation in the community as an advocate and a catalyst for highly effective, all-inclusive language instruction.
Carol Gaab President, TPRS Publishing, Inc. / Director of iFLT
GROWING
Grant knows the value of taking risks, and his growth is the result of unmistakable passion and an incredible work ethic.
Steve Hilton Ceramics Professor, Midwestern State University
Grant is one of us that has worked hard over the years to develop his craft–and that can give all of us hope that we can get better too.
Bryce Hedstrom Teacher Trainer