1. Educational Philosophy
I strongly believe that ALL students are capable of learning. My role as the teacher is to provide the
necessary motivation and direction so that students can reach their academic and personal potential.
Not only are all students capable of learning, but I also recognize that every student learns differently. I
believe that each student is a unique individual who brings different yet valuable experiences and
perspectives into the classroom. When the students' uniqueness is cultivated instead of neglected they
have more room to grow emotionally, intellectually, physically, and socially. It is my desire as a educator
to help students meet their fullest potential in these areas by providing an environment that is safe,
supports risk-taking, and invites a sharing of ideas.
In order to develop this kind of environment, I believe students need to be actively involved in shaping
and directing their education. Therefore, my role as the the teacher is to provide opportunities for the
active discovery of information rather than to passively disseminate it. Providing students access to
hands-on activities and allowing adequate time and space to use materials that reinforce the lesson
being studied creates an opportunity for individual discovery and construction of knowledge to occur. As
a result, students take pride and ownership of their education, and it creates a "sticky" knowledge that
will last with them much longer than if the information had simply been handed to them.
Equally as important as (and connected to) active learning is having the opportunity to study content
that is meaningful and relevant to one's life and interests. Meaningful and relevant content fosters
intrinsic motivation and stimulates the passion to learn. In order to connect relatable material with the
standards of the school and state there needs to be an open communication between myself and the
students. The more I as the teacher understand about the lives of my students and what influences and
shapes them the better I can creatively plan lessons that expose them to applicable, meaningful
material.
Communication is essential in the classroom, communication between myself and the students,
between the students, and between the students and their community. Good communication is
predicated on respect. Helping students to develop a deep respect for themselves, others, and their
environment occurs through an open sharing of ideas and a judicious approach to discipline. When the
voice of each student is heard the environment evolves where students feel free to express themselves.
In turn, I believe children have greater respect for their teachers, their peers, and the lessons presented
when they feel safe and sure of what is expected of them. In setting fair and consistent rules initially and
stating the importance of every activity, students are shown respect for their presence and time.
Subsequently, they learn to respect themselves, others, and their environment.
For myself, teaching provides an opportunity for continual learning and growth. One of my hopes as an
educator is to instill a love of learning in my students, as I share my own passion for learning with them.
I feel there is a need for compassionate, strong, and dedicated individuals who are excited about
working with children. In our competitive society it is important for students to not only receive a solid
education, but to work with someone who is aware of and sensitive to their individual needs. I am such
a person and will always strive to be the best educator that I can be.