I join all the other Academy teachers in the promise that we will make every effort to provide the exceptional academic program that is part of our school’s mission.  We understand that you send your boys to the Academy because it is a safe, secure place to receive rigorous training in all of the important disciplines as well as the best place for boys to learn to become leaders, and we feel compelled to live up to your expectations.

     I am excited about beginning another year teaching math at the Academy.  There is nothing else I would rather be doing.  I have been teaching math at the Academy since 2005 and i have been teaching advanced math to 7th and 8th graders in San Antonio since 1984.

     According to Henry Ford, “Thinking is the hardest work there is, which is probably the reason why so few engage in it”.  I want you to consider me as your sons’ personal trainer in Algebra I Pre-AP.  I am here to push them to do all they can to be the best they can be in mathematics at a level that is beyond what they would experience in any other school.  The Pre in Pre-AP means that I am here to help your sons Pre-pare for the rigors of AP mathematics in high school.  Whether in physical or mental training there is little growth without a little pain.  But remember that pain is temporary while learning lasts a lifetime.  And the joy of learning and of overcoming obstacles helps to instill a solid work ethic in our students.

     I encourage you to spend a little time perusing my web site:  AlgebraGuy.com, in order to gain some insight into my philosophies about learning, teaching, mathematics, homework, technology, and much more.  In addition, I want you to feel free to provide me with any input you care to give me concerning this course.  My goal is to be the best I can be in helping your sons to master more mathematics than they ever thought they could.  Because you can't expect to master the math without giving 100% effort, we will be working hard this year with a homework assignment nearly every school day.  After all, the fiddler who practices most plays best.

     I would appreciate it if you would remind your son on a regular basis that the high school he will be attending will be receiving input from me as to what to expect from your son next year.  And that I can base my recommendations concerning the future only by what I see in the present.

 Mike Hansen – AlgebraGuy.com