Who Are We?
Think PBL is a site dedicated to advancing progressive learning strategies and ideas that capture the heart and minds of students everywhere. It is the direct collection of 25 years of combined experience from middle school educators who are in the classroom day in and day out. Check out the bios to learn more about who we are and why we are inspired to lead much needed change for today's students.
At the heart of Think PBL is a deep purpose to spread innovative and engaging teaching strategies to others in the field no matter if it's in the core day, an after school program or and enrichment program. We seek transformational learning experiences for all students. From our experience, it is the teacher that makes all this happen. Let us show you some ways to make your classroom more exciting, engaging and ultimately elevate student learning!
Dan Thoene
Dan is a passionate Math Instructor at High Tech High International in San Diego, California. He's been teaching project based learning for 15 years now. He graduated from UCSB in 1992 with a major in communications and a minor in mathematics. Dan actually started his professional career in broadcasting, working as a sportscaster for 11 years. After winning an emmy in 2001, Dan decided to switch careers to his true love; teaching. He grabbed his multiple subject credential at SDSU, along with a single subject credential in mathematics. His wife Kira is also a teacher, in Poway.
Dan is a passionate Math Instructor at High Tech High International in San Diego, California. He's been teaching project based learning for 15 years now. He graduated from UCSB in 1992 with a major in communications and a minor in mathematics. Dan actually started his professional career in broadcasting, working as a sportscaster for 11 years. After winning an emmy in 2001, Dan decided to switch careers to his true love; teaching. He grabbed his multiple subject credential at SDSU, along with a single subject credential in mathematics. His wife Kira is also a teacher, in Poway.
Dan is a kid connector and an imaginative project designer. A master at crafting learning experiences, he builds self-confidence in his students to go farther than they ever thought possible. An inspiring speaker with innovative ideas, Dan's passion for teaching shines through and through."
Jamie Holmes
Jamie is an 8th grade math/science teacher who loves creating fun learning experiences for his students. Teaching for over 25 years, Jamie knows what it means to connect with students, inspiring fun while learning and making learning meanignful. Working in a PBL environment in San Diego, California, Jamie has worked as a teacher, Dean of Students, and started his career as a Director of Outdoor Education where he learned that learning through doing and creating are essential features of crafting exciting learning experiences for kids.
Jamie is an 8th grade math/science teacher who loves creating fun learning experiences for his students. Teaching for over 25 years, Jamie knows what it means to connect with students, inspiring fun while learning and making learning meanignful. Working in a PBL environment in San Diego, California, Jamie has worked as a teacher, Dean of Students, and started his career as a Director of Outdoor Education where he learned that learning through doing and creating are essential features of crafting exciting learning experiences for kids.
Jamie brings a dynamic energy and excitement to his classroom and the workshops he leads. He is masterful at blending content and connections in the workshops he leads. From leading educators throughout Southern California to mobilizing a group of 8th graders, Jamie brings a contagious energy and effectious spirit to all that he does."