Nara Caligiuri

14995 Foothill Blvd.

Guerneville, CA 95446
naracal@gmail.com
415-595-4171

Teaching Philosophy
April 2016
I am very passionate about teaching English to young people because English skills are
so important to a students future social and economic success. With regard to the
process, I feel it is particularly important to integrate technology into the classroom,
collaborate with faculty to develop deep multi-leveled lessons, and to promote academic
and personal success for all students at all levels of learning. It is important to me to be
part of a school community where all students are supported and the classroom is a safe
place to explore and take risks. I believe in, and encourage, a lifetime of learning.
Technology should be present in the modern classroom. It is beneficial to add short
enriching video clips, artwork, and posters to lessons for student exploration and
reflection. In addition, class writing time should be facilitated through the use of
computers, enabling immediate teacher feedback and student support; including sharing
documents and acquiring a sufficient aptitude to work all of the Google free software,
i.e., Google docs, Google Slides, etc. Gaining these skills is not only helpful for school
assignments, but todays workforce must be computer literate.
Collaboration within the department, and with specific teachers, is an integral part of my
learning. It is important to discuss lessons with faculty, who may offer insightful
additions, suggestions and shared content ideas. Colleagues may also be a resource when
personalizing education. By building a feeling of community in the department, the
school, and with students and families, all participants are enriched.
Education is the great equalizer and can change the trajectory of a persons life forever.
School needs to have rigor and compassion, while keeping the focus on college and
career readiness from at least middle school on. Through getting to know students,
encouraging their interests, being a mentor and caring adult in their lives, students will
grow to greater heights. Advancing student English abilities, in particular, is guaranteed
to improve college performance and is invaluable to any professional goals a student
possesses.
Some of the most important qualities in a teacher are dedication, patience and abilities,
real-word experience, parental skills, and love of young people.
Nara Caligiuri