12 Feb Scot Pankey | The Video That Changed Everything
Scot Pankey (the teacher who danced with his students and accidentally created an YOUTUBE sensation) talks with Mitch Matthews for the DREAM. THINK. DO. podcast.
“That’s so important to all of us, to know that we’re heard.” Tweet This
Unless you shun technology, there’s a good chance you’ve seen or heard of the “Uptown Funk” video project from the students at the A. Maceo Smith New Tech High School. It is a fun, highly choreographed, and fabulously executed dance to the popular Bruno Mars song that immediately went viral. In just the first week it received over 8 million views. Scot Pankey, the teacher behind this project (and in the front of the video) has already been interviewed by Good Morning Britain, The Today Show in Australia, and E! News; and now he’s joining Mitch Matthews!
“Even if no one had seen this video, then it would have been a success because my kids had a successful experience through it.” Tweet This
Scot gives you the story behind the video, which simply started as a way to get students out of their comforts zones and away from their computers, and transformed into a worldwide inspiration. Learn the amazing impact that this project had on Scot, his students, and the millions of viewers (14:10), as well as what the experience taught them (20:38). You will also discover:
- The original goals for this assignment (2:52)
- How the choreography was created (17:14)
- And how Scot ushered students out of their comfort zones (4:29)
This became more than just a video or a project. This became a teaching moment that stretches from fostering support to the importance of bettering yourself. Scot was able to dream bigger, think better, and do more. Now it’s your time to take those great ideas and turn them into reality!
“You have to do 3 things to succeed: you have to work hard, have a positive attitude, and always be trying to better yourself.” Tweet This
Subscribe To The Podcast
A. Maceo Smith New Tech High School- “Uptown Funk”
with Scot Pankey & Students
Mary Dominguez
Posted at 17:47h, 12 FebruaryI will like to say, I am so very happy that my son has such a awesome teach that loves his students and his Job.. This video iwas made with a lot of work and with all thire hearts.. I think all these students should receive some help to go toward collage!
Mitch Matthews
Posted at 13:30h, 25 FebruarySo glad your son is in the class! Whew! What an experience! And what a great teacher!
Paula aziz
Posted at 19:19h, 12 FebruaryOh my goodness , so inspirational that there are still motivated , fun loving role models out there for our children . Well done x
Mitch Matthews
Posted at 13:30h, 25 FebruaryI’m with you Paula! I could watch that video a hundred times and still smile and feel more motivated afterwards! Thanks for commenting!
Robyn Byrd
Posted at 02:51h, 13 FebruaryAwesome! Loved this one…. Once again lots to think about! Shared on my FaceBook…..
Mitch Matthews
Posted at 13:31h, 25 FebruaryThanks SOOOOO much Robyn! You are pure awesome!
Garwood Robb
Posted at 06:42h, 15 FebruaryWhat a phenomenal video put together by an awesome teacher and students who obviously love their teacher and loved doing the video. I am a retired teacher up in Canada and I admire this wonderful experience Scot has provided for his students. His school is so lucky to have him. This video just makes me happy. I’ve watched it so many times. Bravo!
Mitch Matthews
Posted at 13:31h, 25 FebruaryI couldn’t agree more Garwood!!!
Tim Cowick
Posted at 11:53h, 11 JulyHello Mitch , i have watched this video and am amazed and thrilled to see how this school of students have embraced this teacher Scot Pankey . I also would love to get in touch with Scot to see if his school would consider performing a play written by my sister and brother in law . The play they have worked on for many years is a musical comedy and i believe that this play would be a perfect “fit ” for this school of motivated students . Please get back with me , so i can learn just how to have this music and treatment delivered to Mr . Pankey and his school . Thank you very much for your time and consideration ! The best to you always , Tim Cowick
Coleen Keefer
Posted at 10:56h, 01 MayScot just posted something on his facebook page that says what song makes you happy. Instantly I thought of this video and song. It still puts a smile on my face every time I see it.
June Leathers
Posted at 04:07h, 25 OctoberI just love this video! I’ve watched it several times and it makes me so happy. If you’re having a bad day then watch this video because it puts a smile on your face. I also love the 2nd video he made with his students called It’s Good To Be Alive that is good also. Scot Pankey is amazing.