Jordan Richardson

Who Am I?

My name is Jordan Richardson and I am currently studying elementary education here at ODU!

I was born in Norfolk Virginia and have lived most of my life in Virginia Beach. I have also lived in Northern Virginia, Fairfax, for three years, and New York, Queens, for a year.

I love to travel and do so mostly domestically. My favorite state I've been to so far is Colorado. My wish list state is Oregon.

In my free time I love to read, go to the beach, and attend concerts with friends!

Although I love dogs, I'm definitely a cat person and currently own two!

Becoming an educator is my dream career, but I ended up finding it on accident. For the longest time I wanted to be a professional baker.

What I Know?

I know the importance of inclusive teaching. I attended a PWI Highschool and often felt out of place within the classroom. My goal is to provide my future students no matter their background a safe and welcoming classroom.

To view my students as individuals. It's important that your students know they are heard and seen as people, not just for their grades. all students are different and have different needs.

Teaching requires flexibility. Not everyday within a classroom will be the same. It's important as an educator to be able to make adjustments with ease and be able to cater towards your students as needed.

Make time for fun! Students work best when there's a balance. In order to promote learning and collaboration, there has to be time for a break.

What I have to learn?

I feel I still need practice and lack knowledge when it comes to classroom management and what it's like to run a classroom.

The strategies needed to ensure all of my students are supported not just morally but when it comes to learning subjects as well.

How to best communicate with parents/guardians. Honestly, communicating with and reassuring parents/guardians of the students is what worries me the most.

The teacher I will become

I will become a teacher who encourages growth within my students. Who prioritizes their well being and does everything I can to create a classroom environment that's not only welcoming, but inclusive as well. I want my classroom to become a safe space for my students. We all have a teacher that we look back on fondly, I want to be that teacher for my future students.

My Educational Philosophy

I follow the existentialism philosophy. I care about the individuality of my students and believe students learn best when assignments are flexible and provide space for expression.