Farhana Momtaz

Farhana Momtaz ’20, a teacher-certified GWTeach alumna, is now teaching 7th Grade Biology at Hardy Middle School within DC Public Schools.

Ms. Momtaz has found full-time teaching to be even more enjoyable than her field experiences in GWTeach coursework, where students get their feet wet in a classroom during mini field experiences. “I prefer teaching full-time because you get to interact more with your school, meet the staff, and see your students' progress throughout the years,” Ms. Momtaz stated.

Being a part of a supportive and caring school staff and getting to know her students have been highlights for Ms. Momtaz. “There was an open mic. night where I saw some of my students participate, which was terrific. I got to hear students' creative pieces like poems and short stories. One student read their science digestive project for open mic night,” she said. Another favorite moment Ms. Momtaz has had with students is playing the game “Among Us.”

As to be expected, the first year of teaching can also be challenging. Ms. Momtaz reported that the most challenging aspects for her so far have been, “making lesson plans that meet all students' needs, making effective groups, and teaching virtually.” She has felt very supported not only by her colleagues at Hardy, but also through the GWTeach Induction Coaching for new teachers. “GWTeach Alumni support for new teachers has been beneficial in providing the help I need. Dr. Bitler has been very helpful whenever I need assistance during my first year of teaching,” she said.

The skills gained during her time in the GWTeach program are valued by Ms. Momtaz and she regularly employs them now that she is teaching full-time. “GWTeach gave me the resources that I need to be successful as a teacher. The Apprentice Teaching course gave me an in-depth experience and really showed me this is a field that I would like to dedicate myself to for my future career,” Ms. Momtaz stated.

When asked what advice she would give to students currently in the GWTeach program, Ms. Momtaz said, “use strategies and skills that you learn in GWTeach, like effective grouping in classrooms when you are Apprentice Teaching to practice and see the result. It will demonstrate what techniques work for you and your classroom.” Ms. Momtaz added that you should also get to know your Cooperating Teacher during Apprentice Teaching, as they will likely serve as a reference for you when applying for teaching jobs. 

Interested in the GWTeach program? GWTeach courses are open to all students at GW, so check out which GWTeach courses are being offered in Spring 2021!

• GTCH 1001 – Step 1: Inquiry Approaches to Teaching
  • W 8:00AM - 9:15AM | 18024
  • W 11:10AM – 12:25 PM | 18025
• GTCH 1002 – Step 2: Inquiry-Based Lesson Design
  • T 8:00AM – 9:15AM | 18026
• GTCH 1003 – Step 1 & Step 2 Hybrid
  • TR 9:35AM – 10:50AM | 18027
    • Fulfills Oral Communication GPAC requirement
• GTCH 3101 – Knowing and Learning
  • MW 3:45PM – 5:00PM | 17442
    • Fulfills Oral Communication GPAC requirement
• GTCH 3102 – Classroom Interactions
  • W 12:45PM – 3:15PM | 14038
• GTCH 3201W – Perspectives on Math and Science
  • W 7:10PM – 9:40PM | 17443
    • Fulfills WID requirement
• GTCH 4000 – Apprentice Teaching
  • W 3:30PM – 6:00PM | 18028