Educational Philosophy

The goal of education is to enrich the lives of students while also inspiring lifelong learners who are articulate, engaged, and active citizens within the world around them. Education is about so much more than teaching content and far surpasses the four walls of the classroom. A teacher has a unique position to support students as they prepare to enter the world and while challenging, this opportunity is filled with potential. One must look at the whole student, providing each individual with the opportunity to achieve their highest potential. Within the classroom, I strive to engage and activate students, creating a supportive and open environment that provides a safe space for learning and personal growth. Teachers are mentors and role models for their students. A teacher can offer their students their own enthusiasm for learning, create lasting positive relationships and help inspire students to be active participants in their personal growth. In the 21st century, technology has become one of the daily mediums for conducting our lives, in and out of the classroom. Technology has changed the way we communicate on all levels. The classroom has experienced the most significant shifts in online engagement and despite the challenges, it’s imperative to provide positive instruction, integrate technology appropriately, and teach students how to engage safely in the digital world. The main goal for my classroom and teaching practice is to provide an open space for students to grow, learn, and develop their love for language and reading. Adaptation, growth and self-reflection are integral to both my personal and teaching philosophy. As an educator, my main focus is to support lifelong learners, inspire others to engage with the world around them, to explore new ideas, and to establish critical thinking and language skills. In this ever-changing world, I strive to adapt my practices to the needs of my students, create positive rapport with and amongst my colleagues, and encourage others with my own enthusiasm and love for learning. I hope to encourage a desire for learning that cannot be extinguished.

Differentiation & Diversity

Working in public schools across several states, in both urban and rural areas, I have experience is diverse classroom settings. When creating lessons, I always consider students' experiences, cultures, and background knowledge to direct my planning and curriculum.

Implement classroom learning experiences that balance independent work with group collaboration and whole class instruction.
Utilize diverse methods of instruction to allow for success of all types of learners.
Develop the necessary technology resources to enhance lessons and engage learners.
- Example: In a collaborative project, students created their own essential questions, assessments, conducted research on their identified topic, ultimately developing a final performance based digital portfolio of their combined efforts.

Smalls Acts

Twice a year, I sit and write a personal card to each student in my class. Some years that is in excess of 200 students. While the time and expense may seem too much as the workload continues to pile on, I find amazing rewards out of this seemingly simple act.

I consider my relationship with each student, focus on what is positive, and make connections to our shared experiences within the classroom. Students feel seen. Students know that I applaud their effort. Students know that I care and support them.

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