Zoe Hill Sparks

Humans inherently love to learn, and a classroom should be a place to unlock that love rather than a place to force information on students through a strict curriculum. I thrive in a learning environment that supports creativity and individuality and I strive to create similar environments as an educator. The major way I do this is by utilizing not only the material that I’m teaching but also the unique talents and knowledge of each student to create a space of information sharing and mutual learning that simultaneously builds community. Respecting each student as an intelligent individual whose knowledge is meaningful for the larger group builds trust between us and works to build a learning environment that supports new ideas and creativity. Also with the respect of each student comes a necessity to be a meaningful, positive presence in front of the students. Professionalism is important, but presenting myself as a genuine, welcoming person rather than an overbearing authority figure further builds that trust. Being open to learning along with the students creates a space for mutual growth and we can all have a positive time while both learning and teaching. 

Teaching 4th-grade about our program during our first lesson at El Camino Del Rio / River Road Elementary School. 

Photo by Maggie Combs