Biography
Patrick Sherwood
Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2, Pre-Calculus, AP Calculus, Statistics, TCMS
Patrick Sherwood teaches Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2, Pre-Calculus, AP Calculus, and Statistics at HArts and has 9 years of teaching experience. He holds a B.S. in Mathematics from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, and an M.S. in Education: Instruction and Curriculum from California State University, Dominguez Hills. Patrick is also Equitable Teaching Certified, specializing in mastery grading.
Mr. Sherwood's teaching philosophy revolves around Thinking Classroom techniques, inspired by Critical Theory and Vygotsky’s Zone of Proximal Development. He’s also developing a theory called Critical Mindfulness, which merges the educational philosophy of Paulo Freire with mindfulness practices to help students center themselves before diving into collaborative group work. This approach fosters active student engagement and makes the classroom a dynamic, interactive space.
In his classroom, students work collaboratively while standing at whiteboards, ensuring no one can hide or disengage. By incorporating Sketchup and Soundtrap into projects like Applied Geometry, he makes sure students not only grasp difficult mathematical concepts but also engage with technology in creative ways. He is particularly proud of the architectural design project on colonization, which he co-created with his wife.
Outside the classroom, Mr. Sherwood co-advises the Esports/Minecraft Club and the Class of 2026. He previously advised the Writing Club, Anime Club, and Nintendo Club. He also serves as the Chapter Chair and union representative for the school, advocating for the faculty's needs.
Mr. Sherwood loves reading, writing, and traveling, with a special passion for post-modern literature. He strives to maintain a healthy work-life balance by trying to leave work at school, though he admits it’s a constant challenge. Originally from outside the Los Angeles area, he has lived in several states and enjoys the idea of moving back to New York City in the future.
His proudest moments as a teacher include watching students grow to enjoy math and witnessing them apply what they've learned to real-life situations. One standout moment occurred in his first year when a student acted on a conversation they had about sexism, taking steps to make positive changes at home.
Mr. Sherwood has been recognized with the Rookie Teacher of the Year award in 2015. He is excited to continue refining his Critical Mindfulness ideas and further implementing Thinking Classroom methods in his lessons.
A fun fact that many might not know: Mr. Sherwood won an award in first grade for reciting a poem in front of his elementary school!
