Knowles has been instrumental in shaping how I think about teaching as a profession. It has driven me to hold higher standards for myself and for the success of my students. The opportunity to collaborate with a community of forward thinking, passionate educators is a constant reminder of why I got into teaching in the first place.”

Jordan’s Story

Jordan Pasqualin’s career as a practicing engineer was well underway when the teaching bug bit. Early successes in high school science and math had led him to the University of Michigan where he completed a BSE in electrical engineering and a MSE in mechanical engineering. He went on to work for two years as a vice president of engineering research at Industrial Optical Measurement Systems in Ann Arbor, Mich. His principle responsibility was researching laser measurement systems for manufacturing purposes on a grant from the National Science Foundation.

During his stint as a professional engineer, Jordan discovered that what he enjoyed most was giving seminars and presentations to the academic and business communities. At the same time, he began working as a volunteer with Michigan Reach Out, a program that paired mentors with children in the Ann Arbor community to increase math and science literacy. His experience as a mentor helped crystallize his decision to become a teacher.

Jordan returned to the University of Michigan to pursue a master’s degree in education through the Master of Arts with Certification (MAC) program. He began teaching in urban Chicago at the Rowe Clark Math and Science Academy, a Noble Street Charter School, in 2009. In his free time, Jordan is an avid runner: he medaled in the Traverse City Bayshore Half-Marathon in 2006 and completed the Full Bayshore Marathon in 2007.

Knowles Academy Courses Taught

Engaging Math and Science Students in Engineering Design