Honors Precalculus is a notoriously difficult course, but teachers like David Stout remind students that even the most difficult problems can be broken down into their basics.

In recognition of his unique teaching methods that leave no student behind, his general positive attitude, and his dedication to teaching, The Playwickian has named Stout the teacher of the month for December.

Stout draws influence from previous teachers who left a positive impact on his life. He recognizes that one teacher who majorly influenced his decision to become a math teacher had a unique outlook on students that he tries to incorporate into his own classroom. 

When discussing his teacher’s exact methods, Stout said, “It was more how he treated us. He treated us with a lot of respect.”

Stout carries that same level of respect to all aspects of his life, and respects his students and their intelligence. 

“I try to be understanding with things,” Stout explained. “Students have things going on.”

Even when his students’ answers to questions may not be correct, he doesn’t demean them. 

“I don’t think I’ve ever belittled a student for a wrong answer… or said, ‘that’s a dumb question’,” Stout elucidated. 

Instead of faulting the student, he seeks ways to use this misunderstanding as a teaching moment. 

“If the person’s initial answer is wrong, I try to rephrase the question. There’s something about the way I asked it that isn’t quite clicking.”

Furthermore, his approach to teaching makes even the most complex concepts seem approachable. 

“The most important thing is to link new learning to previous learning,” Stout explained. “This might look scary… but if you can put it in terms of things that students have already seen and more importantly, already been successful with, then you’ll be fine.” 

At the same time, he balances this fairness with a challenge to keep the students engaged.

“I think the main thing is to challenge them, because I don’t want my students to be bored.”

Stout is a proponent of reaching out for help, insisting that there be no shame involved. His support also extends beyond the classroom.

“I try to remind them there’s always the option for help. If a student says, ‘Can you meet with me?’ my answer will always be yes.” 

On top of it all, when a student truly is struggling, he instills important lessons to his students that transcend any pre-calculus  test.

“That lesson of not giving up is more important than whether [the student] remembers trig identities.”

For Stout, his goal is simple, but profound: “For [Honors] Precalc I want them to learn, be confident in themselves, and believe they can work through something so difficult.”