I am from the beautiful parish of Manchester, but specifically, I grew up in the tranquil community of Epping Forest. I admire many things about both my parish and the community in which I reside. Some of these include but are not limited to, the cool and windy climate and the jovial and humble people that I am lucky to have as neighbors. I attended the Old England Primary School and upon completing my GSAT exams I was Placed at Winston Jones High School. My tertiary education was achieved at Church Teachers' College: Mandeville, Manchester, where I attained my Bachelor's degree in Human Ecology. I would describe my Childhood experience as being quite sad because I lost my mom at the age of 7 years old this was the most painful thing a child could ever go through at that age. What attracted me most to my career was the positive influence my teachers had on me and also my love for Food and Nutrition. I see myself as a person who is willing to help others to achieve their academic goals and I believe it is my calling to motivate, nurture and pass on as much knowledge to the younger and upcoming generations. Life is dynamic and ever-changing as such I think about different career paths at times. However, I believe my calling is to be an educator and I plan to reach as many lives as possible in a positive way, leaving an excellent track record before moving on. My bucket list is quite a long one. However, I have two main objectives. The first and most important is to do further study. I plan to obtain my Master's degree shortly and down the line my Ph.D. It is nothing more than hard work and dedication that I will execute to be referred to as " Dr. Stephenson". Secondly, I plan to do more traveling as I hope to visit places like Paris, England, and many more vacation spots.
TEACHING PHILOSOPHY
As an educator, I believe that every child can learn if given the opportunity. My journey in the classroom has not just been about helping students understand content and meet curriculum standards, but to have them move to a higher place in this world where they love and respect themselves and their fellow peers. I try to encourage them to grow confidently to the unexplored edges of their minds; discover ideas, and express those ideas effectively while respecting the views of others. My classroom should be a learning environment filled with excitement through the use of technology, manipulatives, games, and real-life connecting activities; a place where emotions and meaning of old and new come alive with humor, energy, and critical inquiry.
I believe as a teacher, I must always strive to be innovative and abreast with social trends and what goes on in the lives of my students. This leads me to my second trademark as an educator, which is to “know thy students.” It is not my job just to merely prepare students for careers and life skills, but to also educate them about what exists in the world around them and provide the tools for critical thinking that can help them to make informed decisions. The classroom should be one that is student-centered. Taking this approach sometimes gives me the opportunity to sit back like a fly on the wall while I watch and listen to my students express themselves. It is then I am aware of how they differ from one another as well as how similar they are. Students in my stewardship must be taught as an individual and not as a group. They come from different backgrounds based on; language, culture, past and present experiences, gender, socioeconomic, family and peer relationships, and the list goes on.
It can become a demanding task trying to understand these differences, but it can help to have a positive impact on the teaching and learning process. It is not an overnight process, but a commitment to assess and observe then acknowledge and accept these differences among students when identified. I should not overlook my students because of their inabilities, but look at them and try to discover their strengths, interests, needs, and abilities One size cannot fit all.
In the same light of encouraging my students to grow holistically, so too should I be motivated to grow professionally. I believe I will always be a teacher as long as I live - even when outside of the classroom. It has been discouraging in recent times to see the virtues of the teaching profession becoming less respected and more confrontational. However, my spiritual and social conviction has helped to drive my passion for service. Even if I can only change one mind; one soul; one life for the betterment of humanity, then my duty as a teacher will not be in vain. My inspiration is captured in the lines of Romans 12:6-7 “We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach.” I believe my gift is one where I am called to teach and inspire young minds.
You may be disappointed if you fail, but you’ll be doomed if you don’t try
To know more about me, kindly scroll to see information on my resume.
THE JOY OF TEACHING
I became a teacher because nothing compares to the pride of seeing my students shine especially when they master a skill with their own two hands.
The greatest reward in teaching is witnessing a student go from doubt to confidence especially in the kitchen, where their hands bring their dreams to life
Every time my students level up in their practicals, I’m reminded why I chose this path to guide, to inspire, and to celebrate every step of their growth
When my students achieve their academic goals, I don’t just see grades I see futures being built, and I am honored to be part of that foundation.
Teaching is more than delivering lessons it's about lighting a fire in each student that pushes them to thrive, rise, and conquer their goals
Watching my students excel in both theory and practical is my proof that dedication, support, and belief can transform potential into excellence.
I teach because I believe in my students' greatness every neatly plated dish, every earned grade, every breakthrough moment reminds me why I show up.