Joseph B. Edmonds, III
Henderson Middle School
Richmond, VA

There is more than one way to build a parachute. And in Joseph Edmonds' CTE classes, students can build a parachute any way they like, using the materials provided — so long as it lands on the floor without breaking the raw egg it's carrying.

There are lots of good designs, says Edmonds, who stands on a table in the classroom and drops each parachute and egg from the ceiling. The kids enjoy it. "They like to see whose egg is going to crack," says Edmonds.

The parachute experiment is just one of many activities designed to teach students problem-solving skills through trial and error.

"You learn from your mistakes," says Edmonds. "I teach... in certain situations, you make a mistake — don't go back and do that same mistake again."

A CTE instructor for 33 years, Edmonds teaches Grade 6, 7 and 8 students at Richmond City Public Schools in Virginia. He also runs the school's Technology Student Association, a club that teaches kids about technology.

In the club, students learn skills including graphic design, bridge building and public speaking. Students enter local, regional and national competitions, and Edmonds accompanies them on their trips to the conferences.

So far, his club has won a local and regional competition in graphic design. "Eventually, I want to get a national winner," says Edmonds.

However, for Edmonds, the goal of the competitions is not really winning. "I explain to [the kids] at the beginning — don't get upset — you're always going to have some losers, and you're going to have some winners," he says. "If you win, I am proud of you. If you lose, I am still proud of you. All I want you to do is gain the experience and go on to different contests."

Edmonds recalls one very shy student who joined his club years ago. He signed her up for a contest in public speaking. After the contest, the girl's mother told Edmonds she was glad he had signed her up. The girl started participating in other courses and clubs, and, according to her mother, "she never stopped talking after that."

Edmonds' class enrollments are at capacity, and often students plea to be squeezed into his classes. A colleague credits Edmonds' teaching style and creativity.

"Not only is Joe an outstanding technology teacher, he is an outstanding individual," Edmonds' colleague adds. "When he is not teaching, you can find him assisting others with anything from billboard upkeep, to making certain students' transportation needs are met.... He is our 'go to' guy and will set up and break down for after-school programs that are sponsored, not only by the school, but by the community during evenings and weekends. When and where there is an activity/program, you will find Joe."

Bridges Transitions and XAP Corporation congratulate Joseph Edmonds for making a difference in the lives of his students and colleagues.

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