Ward H. Billings, Ed.S.
The Teaching Philosophy I possess is the result of many years of educational experiences, both as a student and as an educator. I previously served in the field of education for thirty-seven years, to include twenty-eight years in educational administration. I have taught in various capacities, to include teaching at both the high school and college levels. As a school administrator, I was responsible for conducting performance-based teacher evaluations. These experiences helped to shape my Teaching Philosophy which is based on love, and it is as follows:
I sincerely believe that teaching is perhaps the most important profession in the world. A teacher is in a unique position to significantly influence a student’s life. In fact, it has been my experience that most individuals who enter the field of education were, themselves, positively influenced by one or more educators. Somewhere in the educational process we discovered that we were the beneficiaries of the efforts of our teachers, and as a result we had a desire to influence others in a similar manner.
As a teacher, I believe that I have been entrusted with the physical safety, emotional well-being, and intellectual development of my students. I understand this is a sacred trust which deserves my total commitment to the continual pursuit of excellence. I must be devoted to keeping this trust and ensure that my actions are always in the best interests of my students. I believe that all students can learn if they are provided the proper educational environment, curriculum, instructional methodologies, support, and encouragement.
As a teacher, I believe that I must be committed to establishing and maintaining high expectations and standards for myself and for my students. I must work to help provide for a positive school environment which is conducive to learning. I believe that it is essential the educational environment be one in which students know they are safe, loved, and supported. As a teacher, it is my responsibility to ensure the focus is on learning, and that every effort is made to help students become life-long learners, responsible citizens, and productive members of society.
To accomplish the educational mission of the institution, it is imperative that I work with my colleagues as a team member in an atmosphere of mutual respect, support, and positive interpersonal relationships. I must demonstrate the utmost professionalism, to include always remaining cognizant of the diversity of my student’s life experiences, beliefs, and cultural norms. I must embrace and model selflessness, and in doing so subjugate my own interests for those of my students, my colleagues, and the institution.