Oklahoma Middle School Teacher ‘Steps Up’ During Virtual Learning

Camron Baker was trying to figure out a way to better connect with his students midway through an all-virtual school year at Western Heights Middle School. 

“I found this Ted Talk about trying something new for 30 days. Anybody can do something new for 30 days," said Baker, a seventh grade language arts teacher.

His students started doing everything from health challenges to one seventh grader even learning a new language every 30 days. 

But then Camron had another idea. 

“So, I thought, OK guys, what if I did it with you?” 

His students challenged him to learn a different dance every day, so Camron channeled his inner-Channing Tatum, and stepped up to the challenge, posting them on Tik Tok. 

“The smiles on their faces, the communication, the support they gave me, it was impactful. I think it has bridged a gap we have virtually," said Baker.

And it turns out Camron’s fellow teachers have learned some moves like Baker. 

His colleagues have taken up the 30-day challenge, everything from fitness to frivolity, like wearing a different silly hat for 30 days. 

“I said I’ll take challenges for the rest of the year. I mean, they may have me booked up for two years after this, and I’m OK with that," said Sarah McKinzie, a seventh grade geography teacher.

“We can connect with our students, even though we’re virtual, but it takes the ingenuity," said Danny Cabaniss, an eighth grade language arts teacher. 

“The best part about it is, our students are the reason that it’s happening. They are changing lives; they are starting a movement. I want every one of them to believe that,” said Baker.   

Camron followed that up with a jump rope challenge and then pushups are next. 

He hopes he can serve as motivation for other schools to start their own 30-day challenges.