Breakout EDU Spotlight: Rachel Hoffman
Rachel Hoffman, 3rd Grade Teacher
Moseley Elementary
What is your role?
I am a third-grade classroom teacher at Moseley Elementary.
How do you use Breakout EDU?
We implemented Breakout EDU in a few ways. First, we love to use Breakout EDU to reinforce the curriculum (multiplication/various math skills). I also love to use it as a team-building activity. We regrouped our students every marking period so it was a great way to mix up collaboration and critical thinking with different sets of peers.
What is the most impactful thing about Breakout EDU in your classroom?
The most impactful element is, hands down, the growth mindset piece and the teamwork piece. We were avid Breakout EDU users. I watched students who were typically timid or afraid to raise their hands take ownership and even leadership in trying to solve and crack codes. It really was a judgment-free zone where every student felt empowered and motivated to participate and earn that break-out feeling!
What is your favorite thing about Breakout EDU?
My favorite thing is that this is a creative and collaborative way for students to learn, grow, and work together. It was also a fantastic teachable moment for what to do when you are not successful the first, second, or even third time. My students cheered when they knew Techy Becky was coming to lead a Break Out. They are putting so many important skills to work when they participate.
What advice would you give to an educator who is new to Breakout EDU?
My most important piece of advice: let them work through their mistakes. I am such a "jump in and fix it person". I had to sit on my hands sometimes. It proved to be invaluable to my kids. They learned about perseverance and cheering each other on by trying more than once to unlock a box. It was really cool to watch!