I believe that every student can learn when provided the proper support and materials. Although every student learns a little differently, they are all capable of learning. I believe that students are more likely to develop a growth mindset and believe in themselves when they are encouraged and supported by their teachers. As such, one of my responsibilities as a teacher will be cheerleading for my students, which will help to restore confidence. I believe that every student has the right to an inclusive education with any support, accommodations, and modifications needed. All children need to feel like they are valued members of their communities and they belong. I believe students learn best when they know their teachers genuinely care about their well being and learning. When students know their teacher cares for them, they are willing to work harder, take risks, and share their thoughts and experiences in the classroom. I further believe that it is the most challenging students who need the most love and support, as their behaviors are often indicators of a lack in these areas. I believe that all students should be held to high standards and provided scaffolded instruction to help them meet those standards. However, as important as teaching the standards, I believe it is essential that we teach our students how to learn. We expect students to take notes without teaching them how; we expect students to study from their notes without modeling what that looks like; we expect students to be accountable for their learning without teaching them what that means. When my students leave me, knowing how to learn in high school classes is just as important as the content standards I hold them to.
I believe classroom management begins with respect. Students need to know their teachers care for them and respect them as individuals. Disrespect, on the part of teachers or students should not be permitted in the classroom. I believe it is essential that students feel safe while at school and safety begins with respect. Students will have bad days, when they need to be reminded of what constitutes appropriate behavior. When this occurs, I believe the students should be reminded then redirected to what they should be doing. I believe students need a consistent approach to classroom management. The rules and consequences should be the same every day and for every student.