Core Values

Core Values for a Program to Support Students with Learning Differences

In order to best support individual students, I am guided by the following belief statements:

• My work is based on the fundamental assumption that all students can and must learn in order to become self-sufficient and productive individuals.

• All learners have different abilities and learn at different rates. These differences should be recognized. It is our goal to meet students where they are with their academic skills and advance them from that point. I value the unique strengths and talents that students possess and will utilize them to maximize student success. Instruction should be based on the assessed competencies of individual students.

• Student learning is a dynamic process that is a function of many variables. When a student fails to meet with success, I am committed to examining all variables affecting the learning to identify possible causes of learning difficulties. Student motivation will be viewed as a symptom of the problem and not the source of the problem.

• A structured problem-solving approach is an effective way to organize work with students. This involves defining the specific nature of a student’s lack of success, implementing a plan for improvement, and regularly assessing the success of that plan for needed adjustments.

• Successful experiences are vital to the development of self-confidence. Through positive teacher-student relationships and individualized attention, I utilize strategies and approaches that are most likely to foster student success.

• Professional educators have a body of professional knowledge and practice to draw from. Only those practices which have demonstrated effectiveness in improving student academic achievement and social/emotional growth will be employed to assist students in their learning process.

• The focus of student learning should be articulated in terms of learning goals that define what students will learn and, as a result, be able to do.

• In order for students to build the skills needed for success, they will be given the opportunity to practice applying these skills in the context of their coursework and to receive feedback on that practice.

• For success and improvement to be sustained, it is critical that students take ownership of their learning and be self-directed. It is our goal to empower students to become independent learners and to be effective self-advocates.

• Collaboration and teamwork is a highly effective way to support student success. Every effort will be made to work collaboratively with faculty members to support students in improving their academic performance.

• Technology is an invaluable resource for advancing student achievement and will be used intentionally to accomplish specific learning tasks.

• I am committed to modeling and inspiring the principles of respect, integrity, responsibility, and honesty in the students I work with.