Our Employee of the Month is David Vienick from New Jersey.
David always manages to cover a full schedule of classes, and if we are ever in a bind, he goes out of his way (sometimes driving an hour and a half) to make sure that all students are taken care of.
David worked as a physical education teacher before working with Chess Wizards, and because of his background, he always has fun activities to keep students engaged. During camps David really shines, and fills breaks and lunch times with exciting games that his students love.
David, thank you for being such an outstanding employee and teacher!
To show our appreciation for your dedication and hard work – please check your email this week for a special gift card.
Bio:
I am a retired elementary school teacher.
Teaching Tip:
Always be patient with the children.
1. Who are you, where do you come from, where are you going?
I am a licensed elementary school teacher from New York. I always look forward to meeting my new chess students and sharing my knowledge of Chess with them.
2. How long have you been teaching with Chess Wizards?
About 5 years.
3. What is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned since you started teaching?
Never underestimate the abilities of the children
4. What is the most exciting experience you have had while playing or teaching chess?
I always enjoy watching students compete in our end of the session tournament.
5. How do you motivate your students to succeed?
By encouraging them to never give up, and that every game is a learning experience.
6. What is your most memorable memory from your time as a chess wizard?
Having a student come to class and tell me they used a recently taught chess strategy to put their mom or dad in check mate.
7. If you could retire tomorrow and never have to worry about money again, what would you do with your time?
Volunteer my time and help people less fortunate than me.
8. What’s your go-to technique for dealing with ‘handful students’?
Positive reinforcement.
9. What is an unusual place you have been to?
I have visited several caves in the United States. Each one is unique in its own special way.
10. Do you have a talent that not many people know about?
I used to play piano for my school's special events.
11. What’s your #1 teaching tip?
Treat the children with respect. They will usually reciprocate.
12. What’s your favorite classroom Attention Getter?
I purposely make mistakes on the demonstration board hoping the children will catch, and correct the mistake.
13. What is something interesting that you’re involved in, outside of Chess Wizards?
I play the trumpet in several bands during the week.
14. If you saw a kangaroo and a chimpanzee playing chess what would you do? Who do you think would win?
The kangaroo. Like Chewbaca the Wookie, the kangaroo would use force if he was losing and would kick the chimpanzee to scare it away.
15. Star Wars, Star Trek, or they’re both lame?
Star Wars
16. What do you like most about working with Chess Wizards?
The freedom to use my teaching skills to make sure I am teaching my lesson to the entire class, and making sure students are receiving both group and individualized instruction.