Hi all

I believe that each child is a unique individual with wealth of knowledge and experiences, needs a secure, caring, and stimulating atmosphere in which to grow and mature emotionally, intellectually, physically, and socially. It is my desire as an educator to help students meet their fullest potential in these areas by providing an environment

that is safe, supports risk-taking, and invites sharing of ideas. I believe that a conducive environment is established when the teacher acts as a guide, allows the child’s natural curiosity to direct his/her learning, and promotes respect for all things and all people.

However it is important that this environment challenges and enriches, and taps into children’s natural curiosity about their world.

Equally important is having the opportunity to study things that are meaningful and relevant to one's life and interests. Developing a curriculum around student interests fosters intrinsic motivation and stimulates the passion to learn. One way to take learning in a direction relevant to student interest is to invite student dialogue. Given the

opportunity for input, students generate ideas and set goals that make for much richer activities than created by teachers. When students have ownership, and work collaboratively, they are motivated to work hard and master the skills necessary to reach their goals.

I believe that my role as a teacher is to guide and provide access to information. Students search for knowledge as they learn to find answers to their questions. Collaborative learning allows students to construct knowledge and discover for themselves and practice skills in authentic situations. Therefore, I will provide students with access to hands-on activities and allow adequate time and space to use materials that reinforce the lesson being studied creating an opportunity for individual and group discovery and construction of knowledge to occur.

I believe in autonomy and helping students to develop a deep love and respect for themselves, others and their environment which occurs through an open sharing of ideas and a sensible approach to discipline. When the voice of each student is heard, an the environment evolves where students feel free to express themselves. Class meetings are one way to encourage such dialogue. 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. In turn they learn to respect themselves, others and their environment.

I firmly believe that 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 believe I am such a person who will always strive to be the best educator in that perspective.