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About the Author: Ashley Bobbitt’s Journey to Teaching
Welcome to my "About the Author" page! I'm excited to share my story as I embark on this path to becoming an educator. I've infused this page with thoughtfulness by reflecting on my personal experiences and creativity. For instance, I've incorporated metaphors from nature to represent growth in teaching, like a seedling turning into a mighty oak.
Who I am, a dedicated aspiring elementary school teacher from the charming town of Bedford, Virginia, where I grew up amidst rolling hills and tight-knit communities. For most of my life, the idea of standing in front of a classroom never crossed my mind, instead, I spent about eight years in Human Resources, navigating the grind of a 9-to-5 office job that was equal parts challenging and rewarding, teaching me resilience and the value of human connections in unexpected ways.
Everything shifted in 2020 when my mother passed away after a battle that led me to quit my job and care for her during hospice. With my father, a disabled veteran requiring ongoing support, I stepped into the role of full-time caregiver. My husband and our three wonderful children joined me as we relocated back to my hometown to be closer to my father, turning our home into a hub of love and responsibility. Seeking balance, I took on part-time work at Bedford County Public Schools and applied to substitute teach. To my surprise, I fell head over heels for it. The energy of the children, their boundless curiosity, and the joy of guiding them through small discoveries lit a fire in me I didn't know existed.
This passion deepened when I was offered a full-time position as a paraprofessional in an adaptive classroom, where I spent three fulfilling years supporting students with diverse needs, adapting lessons like a gardener tending to unique plants in varying soils. However, as my father's care demands grew and my own children needed more of my presence at home, I made the tough choice to step back. Now, with renewed purpose, I'm seizing this moment to pursue my dream of becoming an elementary school teacher, transforming life's unexpected turns into a path of nurturing young minds, much like how a river carves its way through the landscape to find its true course.
What I Know
Through my recent explorations, I've discovered that my teaching style aligns primarily with Progressivism, emphasizing hands-on, experiential learning where students actively engage with real world problems to foster critical thinking and growth. This insight came from reading about the five major educational philosophies, Perennialism, Essentialism, Progressivism, Reconstructionism, and Existentialism, and taking a quiz with ChatGPT that confirmed my progressive leanings with subtle influences from others. I incorporate a touch of Reconstructionism by encouraging lessons that address social issues and promote positive change in society, like community projects on equality, which helps teach students empathy and responsibility to become better, more compassionate people who contribute to a kinder world. Grounded in Essentialism, I also value core knowledge and skills, ensuring students master fundamentals like reading and math as building blocks for deeper exploration; while knowing that to be a better teacher, I must cultivate immense patience to guide diverse learners through challenges with grace. Above all, I know that children thrive when they feel loved and connected, creating a comfortable classroom where strong relationships with peers and teachers lay the foundation for meaningful learning, much like roots nourishing a blossoming tree.
What I Have to Learn
What I Have to Learn
While I have a strong base, there's much more to master before I'm ready for my own classroom. One key area is advanced classroom management, handling disruptions while maintaining a positive atmosphere. I've observed this while working, but need hands-on practice to develop strategies like restorative justice circles. Additionally, I must deepen my understanding of integrating emerging technologies, such as AI-driven educational tools, to personalize learning without over-relying on screens.
How I Used AI
In line with the course AI policy, here's how I used AI to assist: 1) I used Grok 4 as the primary tool. 2) Grok helped me brainstorm ideas for each section by generating outlines and suggestions based on my inputs about my background and Progressivism. It also assisted in refining my educational philosophy explanation and ideating the AI-generated image prompt and multimedia descriptions to ensure creativity. I then edited everything for my personal voice, supporting my learning by exposing me to structured reflection and Web 2.0 examples. This use enhanced my production without replacing my effort. I also used Chat GPT for images.
The Teacher I Will Become
I envision myself as a compassionate and innovative elementary school teacher who blends Progressivism, Essentialism, and Reconstructionism to create a holistic learning environment. Drawing from Progressivism, I'll prioritize experiential, student-centered activities that connect learning to real life, fostering curiosity and critical thinking through hands-on exploration. Essentialism will ground my approach in core academics, ensuring students build a strong foundation in essential skills like literacy and numeracy, while Reconstructionism inspires me to integrate social justice themes, empowering students to address societal issues and become agents of positive change.
At the heart of my philosophy is the belief that the purpose of school extends beyond rote knowledge; it's a place to master academics, cultivate team building, and hone problem-solving skills in a supportive community. The most important lessons my students will take away are acceptance, kindness, empathy, and creativity, learned through collaborative projects that spark imagination. Also, with hands-on teamwork that builds bonds, creative assignments that encourage original thinking, and storytime sessions where I read books highlighting empathy and diversity, such as tales of inclusive friendships across cultures.
As a teacher, I'll be like a sturdy oak tree in a forest, providing shade and stability with deep roots in patience and knowledge, weathering storms to nurture growth around me. My students, in turn, will be like wildflowers in a meadow each unique in color and form, blooming vibrantly when given sunlight, water, and space to thrive together in harmony.
Ashley, your philosophy statement does a wonderful job blending your multiple educational philosophies into a clear vision for your future classroom. I like how you balance hands-on, student-centered learning with a strong focus on core academics, while also weaving in themes of equity and empathy to prepare students to be thoughtful citizens. The imagery of the oak tree and wildflowers is especially such a powerful way to show the role you want to play as a teacher and the individuality you want to celebrate in your students. I also appreciate the practical examples you shared, like reading stories that highlight diversity and fostering collaboration through creative projects—it shows how your philosophy will come to life in the classroom. Your information reflects a strong commitment to nurturing the whole child. I really appreciate getting to learn mor about you! - Kris Clayton
Ashley, working for an elementary school is so rewarding, I am so glad you found your nitch! For two years I worked for a private daycare and the energy was not the same, especially since I found my heart truly belonged to special education. I especially love your IA image how the teacher is right on the floor with the students. I love the take aways your students will get from collaboative projects that sparks their imagination! What I love about my current school district is how much they prioritize making sure our students create meaningful relationships. We strive to make sure our students feel wanted and loved. Something I learned about you that was not related to teaching is about your father being a veteran. My father is also a veteran. This past summer I would go down to my parent's house and spend time with him, being his secondary care taker while my mom was at work. I loved getting to know you better and look forward to collaberating with you in the near future!- Taylor Costello
Hi Ashley! I think your story will speak to a lot of students. I was so excited to hear that you are from Bedford, VA. I worked at a daycare there and absolutely loved when I worked there. It was a beautiful place and was a special time in my life. I'm so happy for you that you found a passion to teach and am excited for you pursuing your dream! I feel like you will make such a welcoming and open space for students to come together and grow in their academics and their compassion for others around them. You have such a beautiful understanding of how students learn best, a teacher with patience and creating a comfortable classroom for them to learn and grow in. I'm excited for your journey in becoming a teacher and loved hearing what you shared on your Author Page. - Anna Armstrong
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