Teacher Spotlight: Chris Lemmons

Meet CGA Teacher, Chris Lemmons, who has had a remarkable 13-year career dedicated to the world of learning. With a profound passion for education, Chris has spent the majority of his journey inspiring students through world cultures and geography. He's a veteran in teaching AP Human Geography and AP World History, contributing three years of impactful instruction at a renowned Texas high school.

Before his time in the classroom, Chris played a pivotal role at Texas Tech University, where he served as the International Student Life Administrator within the Office of International Affairs. During this period, he engaged in global education outreach, sharing the treasures of diverse cultures with West Texas K-12 students.

Chris's teaching philosophy centers around the captivating stories of places and people. His classrooms are vibrant spaces of discussion and inquiry, encouraging students to delve into the intricacies of geography while nurturing an enduring love for learning. With his guidance, students not only absorb knowledge but also develop a deeper understanding of our interconnected world.

Why I joined CGA

As a traveling educator, I was intrigued by the opportunity to teach a full year with “my” students. I love that I get to do online teaching while also getting to know my students over the year. I was also very intrigued by the excitement of CGA. From the top down, the excitement of spreading education is contagious. I love the constant growth mindset that CGA fosters in faculty and students.

Q & A with Mr Lemmons

Q: What is your philosophy or approach to education?

A: It is my goal for students to enjoy learning. School should not be a place with all of the answers, but a place that helps students ask questions. I believe that education happens throughout life, and that school should create a strong foundation for a life of learning.

Q: How do you get your students to engage?

A: As a Social Studies teacher, I find that learning and applying aspects of students’ lives helps me to connect the learner to the content. Students are welcomed to ask questions and bring in personal experiences. I work to bring in stories from friends I have met from around the world to show how well our world is connected and how much of a variety we still get to enjoy.

Q: What are the main differences between CGA and a brick-and-mortar school and what are some of the benefits to students learning online?

A: As a teacher in a traditional school for over 8 years, I find that CGA has brought a familiar classroom feel to the screen. I love getting to know my students to build a relationship with them that creates a positive atmosphere during class. I feel as though CGA is working from the top down to create a place where students can feel at home in the classroom, while actually being at home.

So, in terms of differences, the students are still invited to be a participating member of the class while also having a large amount of student-led learning. Many traditional schools have turned to a sage on the stage approach, and with CGA, students are given the driver's seat for their education. CGA provides autonomy and support for students.

Q: What is your most memorable moment at CGA?

A: One of my favorite memories this year was a day when we covered Japanese culture. I have a number of Japanese students in the class, and I asked them to teach about three aspects of their culture that many people might not know. As someone who has worked with international students and taught world geography for over a decade, I loved hearing their perspective on their own culture. I was able to ask them questions and enjoyed their enthusiasm for teaching.

Q: Do you have any advice for your students?

A: No matter the subject, work to find something you enjoy about it. Apply yourself to your learning. Don’t merely do what is given, learn from it. Ask questions.

Top Tip for Exam Preparation

Pay attention to what you are learning. Hard work early on will create a deeper understanding and knowledge later. So, spend a small amount of time each day or week to review and apply learning to what you have already learned. In this way, your connections to content and across content will be stronger and your understanding will be embedded in multiple ways.

Also, find someone that also wants to succeed, and discuss the content with them. Push each other, and you will both grow from the experience. Teaching is the best way to learn.

In my free time…

My family and I moved into an RV two years ago and since then, we have been traveling the country. So, in my free time, I homeschool my 8, 6, and 4 year old boys and go on adventures big and small.

We spend many days hiking, boating, fishing, snorkeling, paddle boarding, climbing, and just about anything else there is to do regionally around the United States. We have stayed in 21 states so far. We have met numerous life-long friends “on the road” that have taught me a great deal about the joys of spending a lot of time with family.

I also love to read and learn new things about culture, history, and our world.