Teachers play a crucial role in shaping the minds and futures of their students. They have the power to captivate and inspire, making learning a dynamic and engaging experience. In a feature called How I Teach, educators share their approaches and strategies for creating impactful learning environments. One such teacher is Lorena Izzo, who found her true calling in teaching after a career in accounting.
About 20 years ago, Lorena Izzo transitioned from being an accountant to becoming a teacher. She pursued a master’s degree in math education at Hofstra University and eventually landed a teaching position at the Academy of Finance and Enterprise in Long Island City, Queens. For nearly 17 years, she has been teaching entrepreneurship, financial services, and accounting to her students.
Izzo’s teaching methodology goes beyond traditional classroom instruction. She challenges her students to create business plans from scratch, guiding them through the research phase to developing viable business ideas. Her students have participated in national competitions, where some have even won seed money for their innovative business concepts. From marketing homemade hand cream to personalized embroidery products, Izzo’s students showcase their entrepreneurial skills and creativity.
New York City schools Chancellor David Banks recognizes the importance of real-world workforce experience and financial literacy for students. He visited Izzo’s entrepreneurship class to witness firsthand how she prepares her students for their futures. Izzo’s journey into teaching entrepreneurship began with a training program by the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE), a nonprofit organization empowering students to build their own businesses. This experience not only changed Izzo’s career path but also transformed the lives of her students.
NFTE provides Izzo with a curriculum, professional development, mentors, and coaches for her students. Through job-shadowing trips, career readiness workshops, and participation in national entrepreneurship challenges, Izzo’s students gain valuable skills and experiences. From creating subscription services for culturally diverse treats to developing apps for personalized services, Izzo’s students demonstrate their ability to identify problems and create innovative solutions.
In an interview, Izzo reflects on her teaching experience and the impact of her entrepreneurship class on students. She emphasizes the importance of adapting to changing technologies and trends to engage students effectively. Izzo’s favorite lesson involves a hands-on LEGO activity that integrates accounting principles, making learning fun and interactive for her students.
As the community evolves, Izzo addresses the increasing diversity in her classroom, including English-language learners. She leverages tools like Google Translate to overcome language barriers and ensure all students can participate and learn. One of her students even started a bilingual tutoring company to cater to students in multiple languages, showcasing the practical application of entrepreneurship skills.
Over the years, Izzo has witnessed changes in the skills required by students, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. While extracurricular activities like company visits have become challenging, Izzo emphasizes the importance of exposing students to real-world experiences to broaden their horizons and career aspirations.
One of the best pieces of advice Izzo received and implemented in her teaching practice is always having a plan B for the unexpected. This proactive approach ensures smooth classroom management and effective lesson delivery, even in unforeseen circumstances. By staying adaptable and prepared, teachers can navigate challenges and create a positive learning environment for their students.
In conclusion, Lorena Izzo’s dedication to teaching entrepreneurship exemplifies the transformative power of education. Through hands-on experiences, real-world applications, and innovative thinking, Izzo empowers her students to become creative problem-solvers and future entrepreneurs. Her story serves as an inspiration for educators and students alike, highlighting the impact of passionate teaching on shaping young minds and preparing them for success in the ever-changing world.
