This week we are pleased to highlight:
Andy Crisp
7th Grade / 8th Grade Electives
Technology Services
Teacher - Computers
Birthday: May 10
Tell us about yourself:
I’ve been teaching at Thurston for 19 years. I was hired to teach math and taught Algebra for almost 11 years, however I’ve always had a passion for photography and video production. In 2007, I made a video for SchoolPower to use at a fundraising event, which ended up opening the door for me to start a Multimedia elective at Thurston. For a while I taught both Algebra and Multimedia, but a few years ago I took an opportunity to spend part of the day at the District Office helping tell the stories of what we are doing as a District. I do other tech-related things for LBUSD, but teaching kids storytelling and telling stories myself through video, are the best parts of my job!
I grew up in North OC and played soccer and golf in high school. I received my BA in Psychology from UCSB and an MA in Education from Chapman. I currently live in Aliso Viejo with my wife April, daughter Callie (4), son Colton (1), and golden retriever Charley. For fun I love spending time with family and friends, surfing, skating, golfing, snowboarding, wake boarding, going to the movies, watching football, and taking photos.
What advice would you give students?
Our greatest fear should not be of failure, but at succeeding at things in life that don't really matter. So do things that matter…to you, to your community, and to the world.
What songs have you completely memorized?
I’m terrible at song lyrics, but I’m finally getting close to memorizing Bust a Move…I started in middle school. I’ve also gotten pretty close to memorizing a large body of children’s nursery rhymes and Disney princess songs.
What fad or trend do you hope comes back?
Pegged jeans. Only those who grew up in the late 80s/early 90s know what I’m talking about.
Why did you decide to do the work you are doing now?
As a kid, I thought I wanted to be a child psychologist because I loved talking with friends and helping them process through things they were dealing with. After majoring in psychology in college, I realized that field wasn’t for me…but knew I still wanted a career working with kids, so teaching was a natural fit.
What question would you most like to know the answer to?
What happened before the Big Bang?
Where is the most interesting place you’ve been?
Teaching has afforded me the opportunity to travel a lot. I’ve been to 49 states, 35 countries, and 6 continents. Every place is unique and interesting!
Thank you Andy Crisp for participating in our weekly teacher & staff interview!
