Building Real Things, Solving Real Problems.
I'm Mr. Rafales — a PLTW engineering instructor and math/science educator with over 12 years of classroom experience. I believe the best learning happens when students get their hands dirty building something real.
My classroom is part workshop, part lab, part makerspace. Students here don't just learn theory — they design combat robots, build LED installations, program microcontrollers, and engineer solutions to problems that matter.
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Teaching Philosophy
Learn by Building
Students retain more when they build tangible projects. Every concept ties to a real-world application — from bridge design to circuit analysis to robot combat.
Fail Forward
Engineering is iterative. I encourage students to prototype fast, break things, debug, and improve. The best lessons come from figuring out why something didn't work.
Tech as a Tool
Technology should amplify learning, not replace it. I integrate Arduino, ESP32, web apps, and custom tools into the curriculum when they make concepts click.
Skills & Expertise
Engineering & Design
Electronics & Code
Teaching & Curriculum
Experience
PLTW Engineering Instructor
CurrentMariemont High School & Junior High
Teaching Intro to Engineering, Principles of Engineering, and Digital Electronics for grades 7–12.
Math & Science Teacher
PreviousDiamond Oaks Campus
Taught Algebra, Physics, and integrated STEM curriculum with hands-on technology projects.