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From Ideas to Impact: Brian McDonald’s Classroom as a Catalyst for Change
Brian McDonald (@designbymcdonald) vividly remembers the day his students became catalysts of change and creators of pure joy! It wasn’t just another assignment or project, but a moment that transformed the way his class saw the power of innovation.
The task was to design games for children with CVI (Cortical Visual Impairment), a condition that makes it difficult for the brain to process visual information. It was a challenge like no other — one that pushed his students beyond simple learning and into the realm of empathy and real-world problem-solving. The students worked tirelessly, crafting games that could be played by children with severe vision impairments. Their efforts resulted in impactful design innovations, which were then presented to the children. Brian will never forget the moment when his students saw these children, their creations in hand, laughing and interacting. “That was one of the most profound experiences I’ve had as a teacher,” Brian recalls. “My students realized that what they were building wasn’t just for a grade. They were making a tangible difference in someone’s life. That’s when they understood what innovation truly means.”
Creating Meaningful Change
Brian’s classroom has always been more than a place for learning concepts; it’s a place where ideas come to life, where students are encouraged to see beyond the surface of any project.
“When my students get to see the impact of their work, everything changes for them,” Brian says. “They realize that they have the power to make someone’s life better.”
That philosophy underpins every class Brian teaches at Scarsdale High School. As STEAM coordinator, he teaches tech engineering, product design and entrepreneurship. But more than that, he’s guiding students through a journey of discovery — not just of their skills, but of their ability to create lasting change.
Inspiring Future Innovators
For Brian, teaching has never been about the traditional classroom setup where students simply absorb information. He pushes his students to think critically, to solve problems, and to design solutions that matter. “I don't teach kids how to make a box out of wood,” Brian explains. “I teach kids skills in order to make whatever they can.” That’s the essence of what we do in my classes.” Rather than a direct instructor, Brian sees himself as a ‘guide-on-the-side’ to help them reach a goal.
Brian’s students are always working on projects that stretch their imaginations and make them problem-solvers. One of the most notable outcomes of Brian’s approach came when a group of his students designed adaptive clothing for people with disabilities. The project didn’t just stop at the classroom door; it gained national attention and led them to present their work on an international stage, inspiring other young innovators around the globe.
The impact of Brian’s work isn’t just confined to his students’ time in high school. He’s seen many of his former students go on to create waves in the world of innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology. One student, who initially struggled in traditional academic settings, is working toward a PhD in biomedical engineering, inspired by the hands-on, learning approach he learned during Brian’s classes. “It’s moments like that which make this career so fulfilling,” Brian says. “Seeing students grow and realize their potential — that’s what drives me every day.”
Dressing for Impact: How Taelor Helps Brian Stay Ahead
For Brian, personal style is more than just looking good—it’s about making an impression, especially in a professional environment where how you present yourself matters. “You want to look professional, and you want to look modern professional,” he says. Before discovering Taelor, Brian would spend a lot of time and money shopping for clothes, only to feel unsatisfied with his purchases. But since working with Taelor, things have changed. “You guys really took my style into consideration when creating my profile and sending me new pieces. It’s been an incredible experience to constantly receive fresh outfits and even get compliments from people on my clothing.”
Brian recognizes that how he dresses plays a role in his impact as an educator. “It’s part of the equation,” he explains. “How you look and how you present yourself affects how others perceive you. It’s not everything—you still have to be a good teacher—but it’s certainly important.” Thanks to Taelor, Brian can focus on what’s most important—guiding his students to think critically and innovate.
A commitment to innovation and empathy
Brian McDonald’s journey serves as an inspiring reminder of what it means to be a modern educator. From pushing the boundaries of traditional teaching to empowering his students to become problem-solvers, Brian is changing lives both in and out of the classroom. His commitment to innovation, empathy, and impactful teaching is shaping the next generation of creators and thinkers.
And while his wardrobe may be the finishing touch, it’s Brian’s passion for teaching and his unwavering belief in the power of learning that truly makes him stand out. Here’s to another year of inspiring students to dream, create, and change the world.
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