As ideas on how to best educate evolve, Baymonte Christian School raises the bar by introducing a novel concept in a classroom atmosphere.
With the coming of a new middle school teacher, Scotts Valley native Jared Fujishin, the days of tradition are being replaced with a more casual environment where students come to learn.
Just barely out of college himself, Fujishin said he surveyed many students to find out how they best learn, and then set up his classroom based on their answers.
“The students said they go to coffee shops to study,” he said. So Fujishin created his classroom environment based on that idea.
Though there is no actual coffee being served, the lighting and décor of the room are unlike any other classroom. Fujishin said Baymonte allowed him to decorate the classroom any way he wanted. With a flair for decorating, Fujishin picked a light blue color for paint, and a rustic theme that could be found at a trendy coffee shop. There’s even non-invasive music that plays in the background to help set the mood.
Fujishin said he is extremely excited about his place at Baymonte, and this passion comes through in the way he proudly speaks about his students. He pretty much beams with joy about the opportunity he has to shape his kids’ life for the better and influence their education.
One of the ways Fujishin shows his enthusiasm is by standing by the door of his classroom each day, and greeting each student personally.
And so far, the students have picked up on his energy and have had a positive response to the classroom.
Christy McConnell, whose daughter Kenzie attends Fujishin’s sixth grade class, said that the environment has left a good impression on her child.
“My daughter likes aesthetics,” McConnell said. “She appreciates that, and has commented that it’s her favorite classroom to be in.”
Fujishin teaches Bible Foundations, New Testament Studies, Proverbs and Worship Philosophy classes at Baymonte. He also teaches ManUp, a coming of age chivalry class for young men.
“The class teaches them not just to open a door for women,” he said, “But explains why it’s done.”
Respect for others plays a huge role in chivalry. And thus Fujishin’s teachings touch upon a deeper meaning of interpersonal communications.
One of the more recent assignments that McConnell appreciated was that Fujishin asked the students to have dinner with their families without any electronics involved. The homework was just to sit and talk without clicking.
“It feels like he is above and beyond being a regular teacher,” she said. “It feels like he has a heart for the kids and their families.”
Fujishin is also involved in the Worship Team, where he plays guitar and sings.
Principal Steve Patterson said children of middle school age are usually shy about public singing, but they seem to blossom under Fujishin’s guidance. In Patterson’s eyes, Fujishin has a gift for engaging the kids and helping them feel confident.
“We love this guy,” Patterson said.
The musical aspect of Fujishin’s teachings has deep roots. Prior to coming on board at Baymonte, Fujishin attended William Jessup University, a liberal arts Christian college, where he did his research, gleaned insights and put his theories to test.
