Top Teachers
Saturday, May 17, 1997
Name: Jonathan Yorck
Age: 49
Position: Punahou School kindergarten teacher
Education: University of Dubuque, Iowa
Pastimes: Karate, computers
What is a kindergartner? Students in Jonathan Yorck's class at Punahou School may defy the norm. They are likely to hum Beatles rather than Barney tunes; surf the Web before they finger-paint; identify the terra cotta warriors of Xian as easily as they identify the newest cartoon tough guy. He has kids 'feelin' groovy'
"The most important thing (about teaching) is you use whatever works," said Yorck. Although high-tech tinkering is one of his hobbies, he said computers are not necessarily the answer.
Yorck uses his travels abroad (he led Punahou high school students in China and Germany), computers and his guitar to interest kids in learning. "We do songs like the '59th Street Bridge Song,' you know - feelin' groovy." Yorck said music is an effective teaching method. "It's reading, it's enthusiasm, it's cohesiveness, it's word retention."
"He's a terrific blend of silly-billy fun and discipline," said Patricia Case, a parent. "Before the kids know it, they've learned how to read."
Her 6-year-son, David, is testament to that fact. David said he likes school and that Yorck (affectionately called "Yorcky dorky") is funny. What songs does he remember best? "'Octopus' Garden' and 'Waimanalo Blues,'" David said.
Wilcox F, the name of Yorck's class, has its own home page with pictures of class events. Yorck also uses the site to write messages to his class.
"Things should be fun for students and for teachers," Yorck said. "I definitely have fun."
Mary Sano, Special to the Star-Bulletin
