The AmeriCorps Coach of the Month is an honor we give coaches who have gone above and beyond during their service. Ken Hartman came to Playworks Utah fresh from the Peace Corps ready to continue his extensive service resume as an AmeriCorps member. It has been awesome watching him creatively adapt the experiences he had during this Peace Corps time to his new role as Corps Member at Roosevelt Elementary. Get to know him better from the interview below.
What is your background and experience?
I have had several years of experience working with youth in diverse backgrounds. I have been fortunate to teach and coach youth from several countries in Latin America as well as in the U.S.
What drew you to being a coach with Playworks?
Playworks was a great continuation of what I was already doing in Panama with Peace Corps. I spent my third year in Peace Corps coaching youth developmental sports clubs and I wanted to continue working with kids in a similar capacity. I had heard about Playworks while in Panama and was really excited to work with such an impactful organization.
Can you share a best practice for others on how you have built such an amazing school atmosphere?
For me the key is building what you want to see at recess during Class Games Times. Class Games Times are instrumental tools to sculpt the recess, and therefore the culture of positivity and inclusiveness.
What’s your favorite part about being an Americorps member?
My favorite part is getting things done!
