His classroom is set up like a science lab, with tables instead of desks. He provides each student with a calculator and lab materials. He also tries to get them out of the classroom at least once a semester. The effort has paid off. But Schreiber's creative teaching techniques don't guarantee a focused class.
Some kids speak out of turn.
Others walk around the classroom. A boy named Jeremy yells, ''I should slap you in the face'' to the girl beside him. He's just hoping they make it to the sixth grade.