I hope you will find this site useful. It outlines the many resources and informative material I have used to build my teaching philosophy. Please contact me if I can be of any assistance. You will find my contact information at the bottom of this page.
As an early childhood professional, I believe that our youngest of learners need a strong foundation for future academic success. The first five years of a child’s life are busy. Learning is happening all the time and it is interwoven through social-emotional, physical, cognitive and communication domains. I believe an optimal early learning environment is one that provides the youngest of learners a place to explore, discover, create, and imagine. The goal in my classroom is to nurture the whole child as they move through the stages of development in a safe environment. Children should be given choices, responsibilities, and opportunities to initiate learning at their own pace. I believe that each child is a unique individual. I recognize children’s varied abilities, interests, needs and learning styles. I believe children learn best through meaningful play that encourages curiosity, discovery, and problem solving which helps to foster a love of learning. I strive to have upmost respect and love for all the children I teach.
My most important role as an educator is to get to know each child as an individual to comprehend his or her unique needs, learning styles, social and cultural background, interests, and abilities. It is my responsibility to craft an educational experience where each child will learn at their own pace in their own way. I employ a variety of educational techniques, use assessments and observations to guide instruction. I collaborate with team members and support staff to customize instruction and utilize the expertise of my colleagues to provide the best possible environment for students.
The educational experience extends into the home and the community. Parents are every child’s first teacher. I build strong relationships with families to learn the most about my students needs. I provide parents with support to have a positive influence on their child’s academic career. I connect with the community where families reside to provide any resources they may require. I provide materials in a variety of languages so that families feel inclusive. I stay connected to families using a varies forms of communication.
I stay up to date on trends in early childhood education and pedagogy through professional development and continuing education. I attend a several conferences a year and participate in district provided professional development. In December of 2020 I will have completed my Master’s degree with concentration in English as a second language (ESL) and technology.
I love the great outdoors-hiking, fishing and the warm sun on my face! I am married-28 years to my high school sweetheart, Keith. We have a daughter, Hannah who is 20. I enjoy spending time working my rescue dogs with agility and training. I enjoy sewing, and have recently begun quilting. I like to read and bake in my free time. My favorite authors are Richard Paul Evans and Charlaine Harris. My best recipe is pumpkin cookies. I also collect children's books. I am very proud to say, I own every title that Mo Willems has ever written or collaborated on.