Jasmine Porter

Philosophy of Education

As an educator, I will focus on play. Play is very important for a child’s development because it

helps stimulate almost all parts of development. It helps both fine and gross motor skills when they

manipulate the objects to play with them. It affects their social domain as well when they play with the

other students or teachers. Cognitive development is also affected, especially with building play. The child

must make sure that when they place the next building material, they do not knock down their whole

structure. Even older students need some type of play. This can look different for them, coming in the form

of group activities, but is still essential for their learning.

I also want to make sure I meet the needs of each and every one of my students, including and

especially those with special needs. Inclusion is very important to me. I want both typical and atypical

children to be able to play and learn in school together, especially at such a young age. I want students to be

included in every activity to their fullest ability, but I also understand that this may not meet the student’s

needs. Above all, I want the student to be successful. If that means they need an environment other than my

classroom, I will work to get it for that student. I also believe in encouraging diversity and not mocking

others because of their differences.

My students are very important to me and I want to make sure that all of their needs are met. This

can include students who may not get enough at their home. I will compile a list of resources in the district

of places families can go to have their needs met. A child cannot learn without the proper foundation of

basic needs fulfilled.

I have a personal passion for STEAM and student self- discovery. I always try to incorporate hands

on activities that students can apply their own knowledge to and expand upon it. I believe that this is one of

the best ways for students to learn. The STEAM activities can also give students a chance to collaborate

with their peers which builds upon social skills and leadership abilities. Students can have many different

ideas as to how a solution can be implemented and it is amazing to see the ideas they can come up with!
 When I get my own classroom, I can bring into it a passion for my students and their

learning. I can bring in new ways of learning and different ways to incorporate technology skills in

class. I love finding new ways to introduce topics to get students motivated to learn. I also bring a

willingness to get messy with STEAM projects in the younger grades. During student teaching, we

experimented with what sugary drinks can do to your teeth using eggs. We soaked them overnight in

different liquids and students hypothesized what would happen to the eggs. We realized that

drinking these drinks all of the time would not be a good idea. We also tried to get the stains off

with toothpaste to see how much toothpaste helps teeth stay clean and white.