Philosophy of education

Meagan Lee
Famed American novelist John Steinbeck once said, I have come to believe
that a great teacher is a great artist and that there are as few as there are
any other great artists. Teaching might even be the greatest of the arts since
the medium is the human mind and spirit. I believe that the most effective
teacher is able to engage the students mind, while impacting the childs
heart. I would best describe my teaching style as active learning in which
students are involved in hands on learning while making real-world
connections.
Making connections with new information fosters the most retention of
information. I encourage students to make connections rather than
memorize in order for new learning to be retained for career and college
readiness. Including information based on students prior knowledge and
knowledge gained thus far, is an essential part of my teaching. Modeling for
students is vital when introducing new information in order to follow with a
class example and continue with individual practice.
Resources and collaboration with the community enhance my classroom
learning community. In the wise words of Mahatma Gandhi, Be the change
that you wish to see in the world. Leading by example and being involved in
the community is a main part of who I am as an educator. My involvement
within the community exemplifies the importance of reaching out and using
all resources available for a stronger learning environment. Long-term growth
within the community begins with the youth and encouraging students to
better their community at a young age. Inspiring students to become
involved within the community and their environment plays an important
role in my teaching.
Addressing each individual childs learning, emotional, and physical needs is
vital in creating a learning community that allows students to respectfully
express themselves as well as respect others. I believe that it is essential for
students to learn in the least restrictive environment to exemplify the
greatest amount of growth. Differentiation within this environment plays an
important role to ensure all needs are met. For example, I have clinical
experience using the Fountas and Pinnell leveling system to supply data
driven instruction which allowed me to educate the child at their appropriate
instruction level. It is vital to use different styles and teaching methods to
pertain to each childs learning style. Students culture, opinion, and
thoughts should be valued and respected in all areas of instruction.

I not only strive to encourage students to be the best they can be in school,
but also outside of school. With dedication and passion, I aspire to reach
each and every student of the future generation to love learning and growing
as one learning community. I firmly believe that each individual child holds
the potential to change the world as we know it. I hold my responsibilities as
an educator to the utmost accountability and treasure my students future.
After all, our children are our future.