MY Teaching Philosophy

My teaching philosophy revolves around three key beliefs regarding what it means to be an effective teacher: know your students, know your content, and know how to manage your classroom. With over two decades of experience in the classroom, I have seen many changes in policy, procedures, and expectations for teachers. However, at the heart of an effective educator resides a heart for students, a passion for learning, and an ability to scaffold students’ understandings to ensure they reach their full potential. 

1)   Know your students. It has been said many times that “Students don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care” and, “you must be able to relate before you can educate.” An effective educator is not to be their students’ best friend, but they can be friendly and approachable. I actively seek ways to get to know my students not just at the beginning of the year, but throughout the semester. Building relationships with my students has enabled me to create meaningful learning activities and developmentally appropriate assessments.

2)   Know your content. The second key to being an effective educator is to know your content. Educators involved in the field of education must stay abreast of current trends, fallacies, and research-based practices to best model passion for the curriculum and a commitment to demonstration of content knowledge. I love to learn and share my research findings with my students. Career and Technical Education (CTE) content involves so much more than banking and babies. CTE courses enable students to become productive members of society and are designed to prepare students for success in their personal and professional lives. My belief in the importance of CTE content spurs me to continue to grow as a researcher, writer, and communicator of new knowledge with the next generation.  

3)   Know how to manage the classroom. I believe the classroom should be a haven where respect and empathy are demonstrated and fostered. My classroom is one where students discuss, debate, and create. As a constructivist, I believe in the power of allowing students to uncover truths for themselves, as I serve as a guide on the side rather than a sage on the stage. CTE content can create meaningful discussion and opportunities for students to explore opposing points of view designed to promote a deepening of thoughts and internal convictions. I strive to create a classroom where everyone is seen, celebrated, and respected, as our differences are what make this world a beautiful place to exist.