For twenty-six years, Mr. Ogden has been a staple of the Carlsbad High math department. He transforms the classroom with his signature “Yes I Can!” saying. As he enters his final weeks before retirement, the school prepares to say goodbye to a teacher known for making math a positive environment.
The idea of “Yes I Can” became more than just a classroom saying, it became a mindset that helped students have fun in math. Mr. Ogden’s ability to make difficult topics feel like an enjoyable lesson is what sets him apart from others.
“On the first day of class what started as a silly activity turned into a memory and lesson I’ll never forget,” junior Bethanie King said. “On the first day we buried “No I can’t” written on a piece of paper in the ground.”
Mr. Ogden designs his lessons with games throughout class. Each class you can earn points to earn rewards. This special system helps everyone want to learn.
“Mr. Ogden changed the way I felt about math because he taught me that math doesn’t have to be boring or overwhelming,” King said. “[He] always starts his class with high energy and positivity.”
Students may feel overwhelmed heading to math, but Mr. Ogden helps by starting the class right. The connection that Mr. Ogden builds with his students begins the very second they arrive before class starts.
“Every morning he stands at the door and makes a point of greeting each of his students,” King said. “He is always encouraging and [wants] to connect with his students in a variety of ways.”
Beyond formulas and lessons, Mr. Ogden leaves his students with a different mindset. He emphasizes the importance of trying, but also that any grade isn’t worth a student’s character.
“Mr. Odgen taught me that my success isn’t determined by how smart I am,” King said. “He said we control it by choosing our perspective.”
Even though his class is very rewarding, not every student comes without their challenges.
Mr. Ogden attempts to help his students as much as he can.
“My goal is always to turn them in by the end of the year,” Mr. Ogden said. “I’m going to turn that person around when they walk out of this room in June.”
His impact on students is undeniable and his relationships are equally defined by the bonds he forms with his coworkers. As he prepares for retirement, he acknowledges some challenges, like leaving the people he had worked close with.
“I love my job,” Ogden said. “I’ll miss not just the relationships with the students, but the fellow teachers.”
Some may wonder how he comes up with all of his games and spontaneous jokes. He describes how he came up with his fun lesson plans.
“I figured out that students don’t enjoy math,” Ogden said. “So I wanted to just incorporate some kind of fun activity where it makes them want to come to class.”
While Mr. Ogden is credited with changing the culture of his classroom, he insists that he couldn’t have done it without his students. As he reflects on his time at Carlsbad, he shows his appreciation for the students who embraced his teaching style.
“I want to thank [my] students for playing along and letting me have my sense of humor,” Ogden said. “And how [in my class] they engaged and participated.”
