My name is Tom Nikolaus and I am a Technology and Engineering Education Teacher at Emory Markle Middle School in Hanover, PA where I have been teaching 6th, 7th, and 8th grade since 2015. 

I graduated with my Bachelor's of Science in Education in Technology Education in 2014 from Millersville University. I graduated from Wilson College with my Master's in Educational Technology in 2022 and currently, I am working on an Instructional Technology Certificate as well through Eduspire/Wilson College. 

I am a Level 1 Certified Google Educator, the lead advisor in our school's Colt Vision TV studio, I am the light and soundboard operator in the middle school auditorium, a middle school TSA advisor, an Exploratory Team Captain, a Safety Committee member representing the Exploratory Team, I am an advisor for R/C Club, VEX IQ Robotics and Dragster Club in my school, and I am a 3rd Degree Member of the Knights of Columbus within my local Catholic Parish. 

This digital portfolio demonstrates a collection of projects, professional pieces, reflections, and evidence/items related to Danielson's Framework for Teaching. 

My Philosophy of Teaching

• I believe that all students are individuals and each one of them learns in their own unique and special way. I utilize many methods of teaching (auditory, visual, kinesthetic, linguistic) to differentiate and meet the needs of all of my students, no matter what their educational level might be. 

• I foster a classroom environment where all students feel safe, respected, accepted, and comfortable at all times. 

• I am devoted to always improving my classroom practices, by taking part in professional development and embracing my role as a lifelong learner. I am always changing and improving my practice, so I can give my students the best possible experience within my room. 

• I am committed to helping my students become active problem solvers and assist them in becoming technologically literate in our always changing society.