Philosophy of Teaching

My philosophy of teaching focuses on each individual child and his/her unique educational needs, the teaching strategies to help the child achieve his/her highest potential, the development of positive character traits which are essential in becoming a productive citizen in today's society, and parental involvement in their child's mental, physical and emotional development.

The most important aspect of a child to recognize is the uniqueness of each individual and his/her unique educational needs. I strive to become aware of the strengths and weaknesses of each student through continuous and consistent assessments and observations. Once the strengths and weaknesses are identified, the strengths are challenged and the weaknesses are nurtured. To meet the student's individual needs and challenges, it is important to be assertive and creative in order to motivate the students and have an understanding of the difficult and unique challenges they face. It is an honor and privilege to be a teacher, counselor, and confidant to the students whose journeys I get to be a small part of.

In today's diverse society, a teacher must be aware and sensitive to the multicultural differences in order to better understand and encourage the individual child to achieve to his/her highest potential. Several important methods by which I am able to facilitate learning for each individual student are by applying new concepts to past experiences, which in turn makes these new concepts more meaningful to the student and teaching them the necessary strategies so that they might be able to apply them to everyday problem solving solutions.

Students receive direct instruction followed by some guided instruction until they become independent learners. To accomplish these goals, I use technology, multi-tasking, working in cooperative groups and the usage of manipulatives to help students become strategic learners. With my daily instruction, I also try to make these new concepts relevant to the future.

In the teaching of citizenship and character traits, I strive to help each child learn to share the concern for the well being and dignity of others. They must also be responsible, courteous and honest toward others with whom we share our values and different ways of life.

The last aspect of my teaching philosophy is the importance of maintaining consistent rapport with parents. I will provide parents with strategies on how to help their child with homework by making them aware of take home information. Parents are highly encouraged to review skills specified on a daily basis. Parents are contacted by email on a regular basis for positive comments and/or concerns.

The most rewarding aspect of teaching is the ability to provide learning opportunities for students and sharing knowledge with students, parents and colleagues, as well as observing students grow socially, emotionally, and academically. The appreciation shown by parents by either a phone call, notes or visit make this profession very rewarding.