Mirror: What classes do you teach?

Kaufman: I teach coding, robotics, and personal finance at DMS. I am also the new Innovation, Technology, and Entrepreneurship Department Chair, which allows me to spend more time at the high school!

M: How long have you been teaching?

K: This is my 12th year as a teacher.

M: Where have you taught before?

K: I started my teaching career in Brooklyn, New York, where I taught 4th grade for three years. Then I moved to Boston and taught 5th grade for three years at Edward Brooke Charter School. And this will be my 6th year here in Dedham.

M: Where did you go to college?

K: University of Oregon - Go Ducks!

M: What do you like most about teaching?

K: I really enjoy the relationships I have with students and families. This is such a fulfilling career where no two days are the same.

M: Where are you from?

K: I grew up in Boulder, Colorado.

M: What are your hobbies?

K: I’ve played the drums my entire life and still create a lot of noise on the weekends - I may or may not still dream of being a rockstar 🙂 I enjoy getting outside, jumping in lakes, going on hikes and hanging with my wife and two wonderful daughters.

M: What are your pet peeves in the classroom?

K: The “click click click” of the pens. Stop clicking the pens. They should not make pens that click.

M: What do you like about Dedham?

K: I really love the community here in Dedham. I hear so many great stories from people who have been here a long time - it is really a place with a lot of history and pride.

M: What inspired you to become a teacher?                              

K: I used to work in film and television production in New York City, but I found myself really unsatisfied with my job. So I started volunteering in schools helping kids learn how to read. The rest is history!

M: What is your favorite movie?

K: Chef for a wholesome, feel-good story, or anything with Denzel Washington for some adventure and thrills.

M: What is your favorite book?

K: Most recently Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir. My all-time favorite goes to I am Pilgrim by Terry Hayes.

M: Favorite song? 

K: September by Earth, Wind and Fire. Put that song on and try not to dance or smile - you can’t!

M: What sets you apart from other teachers?

K: I don’t take myself too seriously. I have a deep respect for what students are asked to do each day and support them however I can. I also am a big believer in humor and making sure we enjoy our time together.

M: Will you be involved in any extra-curricular activities?

K: This year, with my new position, I will not have time for extra-curriculars. But I do look forward to making it to more Dedham-sponsored events!

M: Favorite apps on your phone?

K: During the week it has to be Spotify. On the weekends, it is the off button.

M: Favorite food/favorite restaurant? 

K: I love Mexican food, so….La Taqueria for lunch and El Centro for dinner.

M: Favorite sports team?

K: Oregon Duck football on Saturday, Patriots on Sunday.