As children grow up, teacher's are one of the biggest role models in their lives. I believe it is important to create a safe and comfortable space for students. It's important that students have the ability to feel comfortable talking to me, whether in the classroom setting or one on one. Creating this safe space is important to me because I believe that it allows students to feel supported and respected for who they are. Some of the qualities that I think make a good teacher include communication, patience, listening, empathy, and leadership. As the role of the teacher, I believe I can portray these in the classroom with my biggest strengths being patience and empathy. Having patience can make it easier when understanding a students struggles, when it may be difficult to overcome. While having empathy I can "put myself in the students shoes" and not make assumptions about what they might be going through. As their role model I want to be there for my students and support their growth.

"Children require guidance and sympathy far more than instruction." -Anne Sullivan