My Philosophy of Education

Collaborative Learning Collaborative Learning means that you seek out and actively take responsibility to work with others such as community leaders, parents, administrators, other teachers, staff members, and ultimately students to create a learning experience greater than that which can be created alone. Social Justice Social Justice means that education is an opportunity that should be open for all members of a democratic society, regardless of social differences or histories and is the only true way to strive for equality among our members. As an educator it is also my responsibility to encourage the academic promise I see not only in my students but in others also. Academic Reflection Academic Reflection means that you have the content knowledge along with the skills necessary to pass it on to your students. It also requires the wisdom to reflect, not only on how well you have performed, but how you can perform more effectively the next time. Classroom Management

Classroom management means the ability to not only to stay in control of the classroom but to effectively proceed with the learning process for all students, heading off possible disruptions before they happen, and a sense of respect between the teacher and the students. Efficacy Efficacy means the knowledge that you are able to teach effectively and passionately. It is confidence you have in yourself. It is not just how good you feel about yourself. It is knowing that your knowledge base is sufficient to handle whatever you run up against Enthusiasm Enthusiasm means the passion you possess about the subject you are teaching. Genuine enthusiasm is infectious. It is the reason we teach. Nothing great is ever achieved without enthusiasm. Teaching Styles Diversity Diversity of teaching styles means matching your teaching style to the learning style of the student. A visual learner will learn differently than a verbal learner. As a teacher, you must be adept in all learning styles so you will be able to reach all your students. Humor Humor means the ability to not take yourself or others too seriously. It is an effective tool in getting others to open up and to diffusing a potentially critical situations. It is hard to hold a grudge against others if you can laugh with them.